By Bob Katzen

This bill would allow minors who are 12- and 13-years-old to referee youth soccer games for matches in which the age bracket of the players is younger than the 12- or 13-year-old referee.

Other provisions require the referee’s parents or guardians to provide the employer with a written consent form; require the employer to provide the parent or guardian with written policies describing the responsibilities of a referee and provide the minor with training; and mandating that an adult representing the employer is on the premise during the match.

“This legislation would benefit both the youths in question and their communities as these programs are extended,” said co-sponsor Rep. Kathy LaNatra (D-Kingston).