Congress is poised to take action following several high-profile sexual abuse cases involving coaches, doctors, and others in amateur and collegiate sports. A new federal law aimed at preventing sexual abuse in youth sports creates standards for all youth sports organizations, including programs offered by local leagues, churches, schools, camps, and non-profits. The Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017 includes requirements for prevention training, prevention policies, and mandatory reporting. Here is a brief overview of the new requirements that all youth sports organizations must take.
1. Mandatory Reporting Changes
The Act expands the list of individuals required to report child sexual abuse. The list of mandatory reporters now includes any adult who is authorized to interact with a minor or amateur athlete at an amateur sports organization facility or event. For some organizations, the Act also requires all adults to immediately report suspicions of abuse to the US Center for Safe Sport and the appropriate law enforcement agencies, as determined by state and federal law.
Each state has a reporting statute related to child abuse and neglect. Some states require every adult to report suspicions of abuse and neglect, while other states list categories of individuals or circumstances triggering a mandatory report. It is imperative that each youth sports organization understands the new federal obligations, as well as the respective state-specific obligations.Read More »New Federal Requirements on Youth Sports
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