Like just about everything else we talk about here, this can have a very local influence to the whole equation (Sorry Rocky but this is often true
). In my state you cannot start a local association without approval from IHSA and following their procedures to get one started. I guess you could start an association outside of the IHSA but you could not attend certain meetings, be given opportunities to recommend officials for post season or hold clinics that are recognized from the IHSA and help officials maintain their license with the IHSA. This would not help people where I live want to join your organization where I live.
Also associations around here do not typically assign games. Training and education are the main focus of associations in my state. A lot of what Kevin talked about does not have the same issues as it relates to IRS issues where I live. All most associations do is collect money and give back to their members or pay for fees associated with running the association. Usually this is done by holding clinics, paying clinicians, paying for meeting sites and socials. I know some organizations have tried to apply for none for profit status. In our state that can be difficult and you would have to discuss that with the local government to know for sure. With that all being said it is always smart to consult with a lawyer so that you do not violate laws you might fall under. The main point you need to consult with people and institutions where you are. I just know reading this site and others about how associations are run and function is very different from where I live and the issues that surround our associations. Assigning and associations are very different where I am, so if that is not the typical structure of an association where you live you would have very different issues to deal with. It also might help to figure out from other officials if there is a need for another official's association in your area. You will either be competing against other associations or having members be apart of your association and another association. There has to be something different about your association that makes officials want to be apart of your group and not another group. That could simply be the smallness of your group and the opportunities that might be greater by joining your group. There are a lot of things to consider.
Peace