Assaulting anyone — especially those simply doing their jobs — is unacceptable. But when SB 531 proposed penalties that would impose minimum jail time for assaulting referees that exceeded those for assaulting police officers, Governor Morrisey stepped in with a necessary reality check. Justice must be fair and proportional, not driven by emotional headlines or reactive policy-making.
Conservatives believe in law and order, but we also believe that punishments should fit the crime and be consistent within the broader framework of the justice system. Elevating penalties for one group beyond what is standard for law enforcement officers — who face daily danger — reveals a lack of balance. It’s not about diminishing the seriousness of attacks on sports officials, but about making sure criminal law remains grounded and credible.
Morrisey’s veto sends the message that public safety legislation must be smart, not just symbolic. He encouraged lawmakers to revisit the issue with better alignment and fairness — a pragmatic, principled approach that conservatives should rally behind.
