Bonamici Commends House for Protecting Amateur Athletes from Sexual Abuse

WASHINGTON, DC [01/29/18] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) voted for a bill to increase protections for amateur athletes who are victims of sexual assault and abuse. The Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act would require coaches and adults to report suspected child abuse of amateur athletes to law enforcement. The bill would also designate the U.S. Center for Safe Sport to investigate claims, and would extend the statute of limitations for young athletes to bring claims.

"In the past few weeks, more than 150 brave women have spoken up about the abuse they endured as they were pursuing their Olympic and athletic dreams," said Bonamici. "I applaud their strength, but they never should have been subjected to years of abuse and assault in the first place. There is much more we must do to protect children, but this bill is an important step toward making our communities safer for amateur athletes. This legislation will strengthen reporting requirements and provide a clear path for law enforcement to address allegations promptly, rather than letting sports associations handle these serious criminal matters. Children should not be at risk because they are participating in a sport they love."

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