Amateur sporting organizations would be required to report suspected sexual abuse and establish policies to help prevent abuse under new legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Susan Brooks (R-IN).
The legislation, which was introduced in the wake of sexual abuse allegations within USA Gymnastics, USA Swimming and USA Taekwondo from at least 368 victims over 20 years, would extend mandatory sexual abuse reporting requirements to national governing bodies.
The Protecting Young Athletes from Sexual Abuse Act, H.R. 1973, would require amateur sports governing bodies to report suspected sexual abuse, to provide training to coaches, staff and volunteers, and to implement policies tailored to prevent future sexual abuse.
Brooks introduced the bill in the House with U.S. Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL). U.S. Sen. Todd Young (R-IN) was an original cosponsor of the Senate version of the Protecting Young Athletes from Sexual Abuse Act, S. 534.
“Sexual abuse impacts survivors for a lifetime,” Brooks said. “It is the first responsibility of coaches, trainers, doctors and amateur athletic governing bodies to protect our athletes and help them thrive. When sexual abuse allegations go unreported to the authorities and abusers are allowed to continue to work with and prey upon young athletes, it is unconscionable. It demands our action and attention. This legislation will help ensure that we are protecting young athletes.”
The measure would also enhance the 2006 “Marsha’s Law” by removing a requirement that minor victims of sexual abuse must prove monetary damages to file civil lawsuits against their perpetrators.
U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL), who introduced the bill with Brooks, said, “The stories of USA gymnasts molested by their coaches, doctors and trainers are shocking. This legislation is aimed at protecting our young athletes from adults who abuse their trust.”