WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – Sports officials say they’ve had enough after being abused physically and verbally by spectators. A recent incident has a local state lawmaker hoping Albany can create change.

In General Brown High School’s gym sits the athletic code of conduct to ensure student athletes, spectators, and officials can all have a good time. But last week at a boys’ basketball game vs. Lowville, there was an incident that broke the code.

“A family member of a parent approached an official and made a comment. The official and the family member got into a verbal disagreement, and there might have been some pushing and shoving that had happened,” said Joseph Folino, General Brown athletic director.

State Assemblyman Scott Gray says it’s one of multiple incidents and Albany needs to act.

“What we are trying to do is raise the level of awareness and say, ‘Hey folks, love the game, love the player, love the hustle, just don’t dislike and abuse the officials,” said Gray (R. – 116th District).

Gray is supporting legislation in the state Assembly that will set clear standards at interscholastic athletic events. It would prohibit spectators from verbally and physically abusing or spitting on officials during and after games.

Sports officials would include umpires, referees, judges, linesmen, coaches and assistant coaches.

The legislation would make it a crime to harass or assault a sports official.

This bill has basketball official Shane Wisner feeling bad it has come down to this.

“It’s a double-edged sword because we appreciate the fact that this could potentially become a crime, but it is sad that it comes to this point. Nobody wants this,” he said.

General Brown is looking at other ways to help get the message across about good sportsmanship during games. One of those ways is to have a student athlete read the code of conduct before the games instead of an adult.

“We want to actually shift that to having student athletes give that message, so it will be more impactful if it comes from the kids to have the spectators show good sportsmanship,” said Folino.

Gray hopes the recent events put the spotlight on Albany needing new legislation.

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