NJ A345

Elevates simple assault against sports officials, players, or participants at youth sports events from a disorderly persons offense to a fourth-degree crime (up to 18 months imprisonment and $10,000 fine), or a third-degree crime if the victim is under 18 years old.

Mandates minimum fines ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 depending on offense degree and repeat violations, plus exclusion from all youth sports events for one to five years.

Requires completion of anger management training (minimum 20 hours for fourth-degree offenses, 50 hours for third-degree offenses) as part of sentencing.

Upgrades harassment of sports officials from a petty disorderly persons offense (up to 30 days/$500 fine) to a fourth-degree crime when occurring during, near, or related to sports events.

Defines "sports official" broadly to include referees, umpires, coaches, athletic trainers, timers, scorers, managers, and volunteers at school or community-sponsored youth sports events.