Senator Lewis Long Authors Bill To Stop Labor Department Fines On Little League

Oklahoma City - "I'd say somebody got overly zealous in doing their job," said Senator Lewis Long in reaction to a recent fine slapped on a Little League baseball organization for not having workers' compensation insurance.

The State Labor Department had fined the Moore Little League Baseball Association $2,000 for failing to carry workers' comp insurance.

"This is just simply ridiculous. I find it extremely interesting that this has never happened before. But I'm going to make sure it never happens again," said Senator Long, D-Glenpool.

Senator Long worked late into the night Thursday writing a bill to prevent the Labor Commission from fining Little Leagues and other amateur children's sports organizations in the future.

The bill was passed by the full Senate this morning.

"I don't understand what in the world they were thinking. These Little League Organizations only collect enough money to cover the cost of running their organizations, including uniforms, equipment, transportation and so forth," commented Long.

"Suddenly requiring them to carry workers comp insurance could force many of these organizations to fold altogether, depriving thousands of Oklahoma children the opportunity to play sports. I will not allow that to happen," said Senator Long.