New Jersey lawmakers introduce bill protecting amateur sports officials as contractors

Bipartisan legislation introduced in the New Jersey Assembly and Senate seeks to classify amateur sports officials as independent contractors. The measure aims to exempt youth sports organizations and school districts from treating referees as employees under state labor laws. Sponsors argue that failure to pass this bill could increase administrative burdens and operational costs, potentially leading to fewer games or increased registration fees. Officials backing the measure express concern that a reclassification would exacerbate existing shortages by removing the flexibility currently associated with officiating. The proposal specifically addresses the state's existing ABC test for worker classification, ensuring that those officiating amateur contests remain exempt from employee status. Lawmakers are expected to review the proposals when they return to Trenton this week.

• 8:02 PMYahoo Sports — New Jersey bill would protect sports refs as 'independent contractors'