Governor

Roy Barnes recently signed HB 265, a measure aimed at

protecting sports officials from angry fans and players.

The measure, sponsored by Rep. Stan Watson of Decatur,

covers collegiate, high school and any other amateur

sports.

"This

will send a strong message to those who don't respect

officials and help keep our parks safefrom

violence," said Rep. Watson. "I've seen too

many people over the years cross the line when they don't

agree with a call."

According

to the bill, any person committing simple assault, simple

battery, or battery against a sports official could be

punished for a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated

nature. The offense must occur while the official is

officiating an amateur contest, or while they are exiting

the property where he or she will officiate, or has

completed officiating an amateur contest.

Also

according to the bill, a person commits the offense of

simple battery when he or she either intentionally makes

physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with

the person of another; or intentionally causes physical

harm to another.