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2016 SESSION

16102547D
SENATE BILL NO. 461
Offered January 13, 2016
Prefiled January 12, 2016
A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Title 32.1 a chapter numbered 18, consisting of sections numbered 32.1-371 and 32.1-372, relating to the Movable Soccer Goal Safety Act.
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Patron-- Vogel
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Referred to Committee on Education and Health
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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding in Title 32.1 a chapter numbered 18, consisting of sections numbered 32.1-371 and 32.1-372, as follows:

CHAPTER 18.
MOVABLE SOCCER GOAL SAFETY ACT.

§ 32.1-371. Definitions.

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Movable soccer goal" means a freestanding structure consisting of at least two upright posts, a crossbar, and support bars that is designed to be (i) used by adults or children for the purposes of a soccer goal; (ii) used without any other form of support or restraint, other than pegs, stakes, augers, counter-weights, or other types of temporary anchoring devices; and (iii) able to be moved to different locations.

"Organization" means any park district, school district, sporting club, soccer organization, unit of local government, religious organization, business, or other similar organization that uses, owns, or maintains a movable soccer goal.

§ 32.1-372. Soccer goal safety and education policy required.

Every organization that owns and controls a movable soccer goal shall establish a soccer goal safety, training, and education policy, consistent with the Guidelines for Movable Soccer Goal Safety published by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, that outlines how the organization will address (i) any safety concerns related to movable soccer goals, including the dangers of unanchored or improperly anchored soccer goals tipping over; (ii) the care that must be taken to ensure proper installation, setup, maintenance, and transportation of movable soccer goals; and (iii) the necessary training for coaches and referees to ensure the responsible use of movable soccer goals. The Department, in conjunction with the Department of Conservation and Recreation, shall provide technical assistance to organizations to establish such policies.