House passes Judiciary Committee Legislation to protect athletes from abuse

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, the House of Representatives passed the Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act (S. 534). Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement:

“I am pleased that the House has passed bipartisan legislation to prevent abuse in amateur athletics. One of our highest priorities on the House Judiciary Committee has been to protect children from harm, and the recent sentencing of former USA Gymnastics physician Larry Nassar highlights the need for serious reforms to protect young athletes and hold predators accountable. This legislation mandates that amateur athletics governing bodies immediately report allegations of abuse, including sexual abuse, to law enforcement. It also establishes best practices for preventing abuse and provides governing bodies with guidelines about reporting abuse. These changes respond to the needs of victims and will make amateur athletics safer for future Olympians. I am proud to support this bill.”

Background: The House Judiciary Committee previously passed companion legislation, the Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse Act (H.R. 1973), which then passed the full House of Representatives. Last year, the House passed a series of  bills to protect children from exploitation and abuse.