The future of youth referees for youth sports is in jeopardy.  The problem is that referees are not considered contractors by the State of Alaska and therefore need to carry workman's comp and disability insurance.  For some reason, this group was not included in the exempt status when the law was drafted.  Other groups were, such as newspaper delivery persons and others.

If this law is not changed, no youth under the age of 16 will be allowed to referee any spot in Alaska.  This will also drive up the cost of referees. The referee association in Anchorage has already declared that they will seek bankruptcy if the law is not changed.  As of this moment, the lawsuit has made its way to the Alaskan Supreme Court.  Legislation can change the language of the law.  Joe Paskvan is considering proposing a bill that will exempt referees.  Please contact him with a short letter of support..Senator_Joe_Paskvan@legis.state.ak.us

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