State Reps: Pro Sports Needs Zero-Tolerance Policy for Domestic Abuse

NFL running back Ray Rice was released from the Baltimore Ravens and banned from the league this month for a domestic violence incident. (Photo: File photo)

_________________________________________________________

Members of the Michigan House of Representatives passed a non-binding resolution Thursday that urges the state’s pro sports teams to adopt zero-tolerance policies when it comes to domestic abuse, MLive reports.

READ: Check Out the Full Text of the Non-Binding Resolution

The measure, which carries no legal authority, comes in the wake of a rash of domestic violence case brought against NFL players. Running back Ray Rice recently had his contract voided with the Baltimore Ravens and was banned from the league after a video was released of him striking his then-fiance (now his wife) in an elevator, knocking her unconscious. Rice initially was only suspended for two games for the incident before the video was leaked.

“Such a policy would send a clear message to professional athletes that there is an expected standard of conduct that extends beyond the field or the court,” the resolution states. “It would also communicate that the consequences they face will be beyond criminal investigations.

READ: Check Out the Full MLive Story for More Details

“By adopting a zero-tolerance domestic violence policy, Michigan’s sports teams will send a strong message that violent behavior will not be tolerated.”

Copies of the resolution will be sent to the owners of all the state’s professional sports teams, not simply its NFL franchise, the Detroit Lions.