Texas high school sports officials now have the authority to eject unruly spectators from games without issuing a warning, following a new mandate from the University Interscholastic League (UIL) that took effect this season.
The expanded authority comes after Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 2929 into law, a measure principally authored by Sen. Brandon Creighton and co-authored by Sen. Tan Parker. The bill, which amends Section 37.105 of the Texas Education Code, passed the Senate by a 30-1 vote on May 7 and cleared the House unanimously, 135-0, a week later.
The new law specifically adds subsection a-1, stating that “a verbal warning and persisting in inappropriate behavior are not required” for officials to eject a spectator from extracurricular athletic events sponsored or sanctioned by school districts or the UIL.
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Sen. Creighton said the change was necessary to address disruptive or dangerous behavior at school sporting events. “These requirements hinder referees, judges, or other officials from responding appropriately to highly disruptive or dangerous spectators during UIL events,” Creighton said. “SB 2929 seeks to improve student safety and avoid disruption of certain school events by allowing certain individuals to immediately eject spectators from UIL events.”
The law, which is already in effect, has drawn some criticism. The Texas Policy Research group opposed the bill, arguing it threatens individual liberty by removing procedural safeguards that protect fair treatment at public events. “The bill weakens individual liberty by removing procedural safeguards that protect a person’s right to fair treatment at public events,” the group said.
Despite the concerns, the UIL and state lawmakers maintain that the new rule is intended to ensure a safer and more orderly environment at Texas high school sporting events.
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