New Hampshire Sports Officials Now Protected by Law from Assaults and Threats

Spectators at New Hampshire sports games will now have to watch their emotions under a new law aimed at protecting sports officials from harassment and assault.

Governor Chris Sununu signed Senate Bill 327 Friday, a bill which provides penalties for crimes committed against sports officials, including first- or second-degree assault, criminal threatening, and stalking.

The bill applies to any participant, including spectators, coaches, administrators, or players, at an amateur or professional athletic contest in the state.