Minnesota legislators are considering a $1,000 fine on unruly youth sports attendees.
A proposal to impose civil penalties on people who disrupt kids’ sports events has some bipartisan support.”
According to the Star Tribune, Rep. John Huot’s proposal would require people to pay a civil fine, rather than a criminal one, if they interfere with a game by stepping onto the field, throw something onto a rink or court, or swear at officials, Huot said. Fans yelling about a perceived bad call is part of the game, he said, but this would address those whose behavior goes beyond that into inappropriate territory.
While presumably we all agree that fans should behave in youth sports activities and no doubt there are some parents and fans who get unruly, we’re not sure a $1,000 fine resulting in Rep. John Huot’s approach is the right prescription.
Under current Minnesota law, school principals can ban someone from attending any sports event in that district for up to one year.
This is a much better and more effective way of dealing with adults who are unable to control their language and their temper tantrums while watching kids play sports.
