House Bill 103, known as the Youth Athlete Protection Act, proposes new statewide requirements for youth sports organizations and local governments in Alabama. The bill mandates that all coaches, including volunteers, undergo criminal background checks and complete annual mandatory reporter training. Additionally, organizations must adopt a youth athlete protection policy outlining clear rules for coach behavior, one-on-one interactions, communication with athletes, and reporting suspected abuse.
Rep. Leigh Hulsey, the bill’s sponsor, explained the motivation behind the legislation. “This bill came about after several families in my district reached out to me with concerns about youth athletics and the need for stronger safeguards. There have been situations involving families that raised serious concerns. At the end of the day, I believe we will never be wrong when we take steps to protect children,” Hulsey said.
The bill requires youth sports organizations and local governments to certify compliance with the state annually or face prohibition from offering youth sports programs. Hulsey emphasized the bill’s preventative nature, stating, “I believe this bill can be very effective, especially in preventing individuals with a criminal history involving inappropriate behavior with minors from being placed in positions of trust with our children. It’s a common sense step that prioritizes safety while supporting youth sports in our communities.”…