[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 134 (Thursday, December 7, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2110]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  H.R. 1176, THE ``NONPROFIT ATHLETIC ORGANIZATION PROTECTION ACT OF 
                                 2006''

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 5, 2006

  Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 1176, 
the ``Nonprofit Athletic Organization Protection Act of 2006.'' This 
legislation would provide broad immunity to nonprofit athletic 
associations which enact rules governing athletic competitions. In some 
cases, these rules have resulted in injuries to children and 
participants including serious head and spinal injuries because of 
swimming pools that were too shallow for diving. I also have strong 
concerns that passage of this legislation would preclude victims of 
sexual assault from bringing civil lawsuits against nonprofit athletic 
associations which have acted negligently.
  Unfortunately, the Majority, in its rush to adjourn, has brought a 
bill to the floor that leaves children vulnerable to abuse. I urge my 
colleagues to vote no.

                          ____________________