Town Supervisor

I recently released a public statement involving a very important issue that will severely hamper the ability for youth sports organizations to provide competitive play for our young athletes in Saratoga County and New York State. The issue involves the ability of youth sports organizations to employ referees, umpires and game officials who are under the age of 14, which has been a practice for decades. The New York State Department of Labor recently conducted at least one audit of a local organization that resulted in approximately $7,000 in fines. According to Channel 10 News, the Department of Labor described the review as an investigation. My request to our New York State Legislature and Governor was to include an exemption in New York State law for referees, umpires and game officials under the age of 14, to be employed lawfully. Currently New York State allows employment exemptions for child models, child performers, newspaper delivery and farm work for individuals under 14. An exemption for our youth to continue to officiate games is desperately needed if we are to continue to enjoy the extensive opportunities for competitive play offered by organizations across our communities.

I also requested the New York State Department of Labor return the money collected in fines for any youth sports organization that has been audited or investigated. These organizations are managed by volunteers, who dedicate their time and effort to oversee their operations. Many people and I are very hopeful legislation submitted by elected officials in the New York State Legislature to add this exemption, will become a reality.

I would like to thank the Department of Labor for reaching a common sense decision and returning the money collected in fines back to at least one organization. $7,000 is a significant sum of money for a youth sports organization. I am hopeful there will now be additional momentum to move forward with the legislative remedy that would add an employment exemption and solve this issue once and for all.

As local communities, we need to consistently encourage and offer additional opportunities for our youth to engage in positive activities. I understand some parents do not want their children to be a game official in this age bracket. As parents, we make many decisions about the type of activities, sports and endeavors we want our children to pursue or avoid. These are personal decisions. For individuals who pursue the chance to be a game official, take the time to be trained and assist youth sports by their presence, this option should not be eliminated.