The Respect the Whistle Act

Did you know that nearly half of sports officials feel unsafe due to the behavior of coaches, parents, or players? It’s time for change.

We’ve all seen the news stories of violence erupting at sporting events due to one unfavorable call. Sports officials in Pennsylvania have had protection from assault since 1990. Senator Dillon’s SB 842 addresses a critical gap in that protection by tackling the issue of harassment.

The Respect the Whistle Act will create a separate offense for harassment against sports officials to ensure they can do their jobs without fear. It’s about promoting respect, fairness, and a better environment for athletes across Pennsylvania.

Join us in saying: Play fair. Play safe. Respect the whistle.

Senator Jimmy Dillon

Respect the Whistle Act Gains Bipartisan Support to Protect Pennsylvania’s Sports Officials

Harrisburg, PA – October 3, 2023 – State Senator Jimmy Dillon (D, Philadelphia) is pleased to announce the successful passage of Senate Bill 842, known as the Respect the Whistle Act, by the Pennsylvania Senate Judiciary Committee.

With a bipartisan majority of 13 to 2, this vote is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and dignity of sports officials across Pennsylvania. “I’m grateful to Chair Baker, Chair Santarsiero, and the members of the committee for their attention and support today,” said Senator Dillon.

Pennsylvania sports officials have had protection from assault since 1990. Senator Dillon’s SB 842 addresses a critical gap in that protection by tackling the issue of harassment. The Respect the Whistle Act will create a separate offense for harassment against sports officials to ensure they can do their jobs without fear.

Interview: Senator Dillon Celebrates 13-2 Bipartisan Win for Sports Officials

“I’ve always believed that sports have a special power to bring communities together, shape our kids into responsible adults, and instill vital values like fairness and teamwork. Sadly, I’ve also seen how a single controversial call can ignite tempers and even spark violence.

That’s why I’m proud to introduce the Respect the Whistle Act. This legislation is all about making sure our sports officials can do their jobs without intimidation or mistreatment. It’s about creating a safer, more inclusive space for our young athletes to learn and grow. Together, we can keep the focus where it belongs — on the game.”

– Senator Jimmy Dillon

Events

State Senator Jimmy Dillon to Unveil “Respect the Whistle Act” Promoting Safety and Respect for Sports Officials

On October 14th, State Senator Jimmy Dillon marked the beginning of the youth football season by unveiling SB 842, the “Respect the Whistle Act.” This legislation addresses the alarming issue of harassment and bullying faced by sports officials across Pennsylvania. He was joined by PIAA officials, youth sports leaders and City Council Member Isaiah Thomas.

We Want Your Input!

Shockingly, nearly half of sports officials have felt unsafe due to the behavior of administrators, coaches, parents, or players. SB 842, The Respect the Whistle Act, attempts to address this pressing issue. While current law protects officials from assault, it doesn’t address harassment, leaving them vulnerable to personal injury, hearings, or lawsuits. State Senator Jimmy Dillon’s legislation closes this loophole by creating a separate offense for harassment against sports officials.

Your insights and experiences are invaluable in supporting this cause. Please take a moment to share your thoughts with us through this brief questionnaire:

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Latest News

Respecting The Whistle Bill Advances

Respecting The Whistle Bill Advances

HARRISBURG – Senate Bill 842, known as the Respect the Whistle Act, has been approved by the PA Senate by a bipartisan vote. While PA sports officials have had protection from assault since 1990, the bill addresses a critical gap in that protection by tackling the...

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Hey, sports spectators, respect the whistle

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State Sen. Jimmy Dillon on Saturday held a news conference in the Bustleton Bengals gym to rally support for SB 842, the “Respect the Whistle Act.” The legislation addresses the issue of harassment and bullying faced by sports officials across Pennsylvania, creating a...

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Bill Offers Respect For The Whistle

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HARRISBURG – Legislation called Respect the Whistle Act is advancing in the PA Senate. With a bipartisan vote, Senate Bill 842 was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee and is before the full Senate. Sports officials in the Keystone State have had protection from...

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Harassment Protections for Pennsylvania Sports Officials

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RACINE, Wis. — Pennsylvania State Senator Jimmy Dillon introduced State Bill 842 and is calling on sports officials to show support during a press conference scheduled for Saturday, October 14 at 9am. The event will be held at the Bustleton Bengals Youth Organization...

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Massive referee exodus hits youth sports

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Pennsylvania is one of 23 states with this legislation on the books, according to the National Association of Sports Officials, an organization based in Racine, Wisconsin, that advocates for these laws. Bernard Jones III went up to the press box at Small Athletic...

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