Governor vetoes bill that would increase penalty for assault of sports officials

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) – Officials are a necessity at all athletic events. West Virginia State Sen. Mike Woelfel, D-Cabell, said times are tough for those who choose to put on a whistle.

“Officials are being disrespected and threatened and harmed. People don’t want to be officials. This is deterring people from becoming officials,” Woelfel said.

In February of 2025, Woelfel introduced Senate Bill 531 which proposed increased penalties for those who commit assault and battery on sports officials and participants.

“The safety of sports officials, players and coaches, to me, is a major issue and that’s what motivated me,” said Woelfel.

Senate Bill 531 proposed a fine of up to $500 and jail time up to six months for those convicted of assault against a sports official or participant. It also proposed a fine of up to $1,000 and jail time up to 12 months for those convicted of battery.

The bill made its way through the Legislature with lots of support from state leaders, but Republican Gov. Patrick Morrisey ultimately decided to veto the bill.

Morrisey explained his decision in a letter sent to the Secretary of State, President of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Delegates saying:

“I find these offenses to be abhorrent. But I cannot justify a crime against a referee carrying a minimum sentence that is double that for assault on a police officer, particularly when only the former is mandatory. I would like to echo the sentiment of the Legislators: The individuals who devote their time to referee and coach our youth sports leagues, often as unpaid volunteers, provide an admirable service to our communities and they are very much valued. But I cannot sign this bill, as it is currently written, and encourage the bill sponsor to work with my office to craft better legislation.”

Woelfel is disappointed in the governor’s decision but plans to introduce a similar bill next year.

“Reasonable minds can differ. So, I can always see the other point of view. Instead of just giving up, what we do is we make it better, and we do it again,” Woelfel said.

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