Bipartisan Assemblymembers push bill requiring background checks for youth sports coaches

A bipartisan group of Assemblymembers will introduce legislation to require adults who work in youth sports to undergo annual background checks, they announced Wednesday.

The bill, which hasn’t yet been released, would require coaches who work with children in sports to undergo annual criminal background checks. Its sponsors, including Assemblywoman Andrea Katz (D-Chesterfield) and Assemblyman Jay Webber (R-Morris Plains), say current state law allows problematic coaches to “avoid scrutiny and continue operating.”

And they said the bill is a step toward standardizing the background-check process in New Jersey youth sports — they say requirements vary widely depending on the sport and the league.

“As a mom, there is nothing more important to me than the safety of our children,” Katz said in a release. “Families trust youth sports leagues, clubs, and organizations with their kids every single day. This legislation ensures that every adult in those spaces is subject to consistent, thorough background checks so parents can have greater peace of mind.”

The legislators cited an NJ Advance Media report that found more than 110 youth sports coaches, trainers, or employees have faced sex crime charges in New Jersey since 2015. The report also found that several laws meant to protect New Jersey’s young athletes only apply to school districts or sports organizations that “adhere” to them. 

“We know that predators go where the children are. The vetting process has not kept pace with the explosive growth of youth activities and the increasing demand for adult leaders like coaches, trainers, and instructors,” Webber said. “We need to shore up regulations and oversight over youth organizations to protect New Jersey’s children.”

The legislators also referred to a study that found the state sex offender registry does little to deter sex crimes.

“Requiring annual criminal background checks for coaches and instructors will establish a clear, consistent statewide standard, close gaps in the current system, and strengthen protections for children participating in youth sports,” said Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie (D-Livingston), the bill’s third sponsor.