Bill signed protecting athletes from abuse

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green), chairman of the Energy and Commerce (E&C) Subcommittee on Digital Commerce and Consumer Protection, applauded the signing of the Protecting Young Athletes from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act into law.

The subcommittee that Latta chairs has jurisdiction over the health and safety of athletes, and he has been outspoken in his call for an investigation in light of the recent USA gymnastics abuse case.

In addition, Latta sent a letter with other Energy and Commerce Committee leaders to the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC), USA Gymnastics, USA Swimming, USA Taekwondo, and Michigan State University seeking documents regarding sexual abuse in their organizations. The E&C Committee will be conducting an investigation into the matter.

The legislation signed into law would require reporting of suspected child and sexual abuse at an amateur sports organization facility or at an event sanctioned by one of the governing bodies to local and federal authorities within 24 hours. The bill also strengthens civil remedies for survivors of sexual abuse. The bill makes the changes to the Amateur Sports Act, which charters the USOC and subsequent national governing bodies for each Olympic sport.

“It’s impossible to hear the stories told by those subjected to sexual abuse by Larry Nassar and not feel that there was a complete letdown by the institutions charged with keeping these young athletes safe,” said Latta. “The legislation signed into law today is an important first step by mandating amateur organizations report abuse to law enforcement, but there are still countless questions about how he was able to exploit those entrusted in his care for so long.

“Too many young athletes suffered for us to simply think the conviction of Dr. Nassar makes this sad chapter complete,” Latta added. “We need answers to these questions and full accountability of our nation’s amateur athletic organizations.”