Under a proposal nearing passage in the state House, Louisiana parents could face jail time for harassing or threatening referees at their kids' sporting events.
Metairie Republican Rep. Cameron Henry's proposal would create the new crime of harassment of a school or recreation athletic contest official.
It would authorize penalties if the referee feels in "fear of receiving bodily harm'' while officiating. A parent, or presumably any fan in the stands, found guilty could face up to 90 days in jail, mandatory counseling and community service work. The measure would also would create a new crime and penalties for entering or remaining onsite at a school or recreation athletic event after being told to leave. Saturday, the Senate voted unanimously for the bill's passage. The House would still have to approve the measure before it can reach the governor.