[Robert E. Harrison]

Starting this fall, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association and the state attorney general's office will implement what they are calling a “trash-talk ban” on the more than 400 schools that fall under the NJSIAA’s umbrella. Under the new guidelines, athletic teams will be held to the same anti-bullying laws that apply to the schools they represent.

According to The Associated Press, “participants could be in trouble if they make harassing statements related to gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or religion.” NBC New York also reports that "'unduly provocative language or action toward officials, opponents or spectators also won't be tolerated," citing NJSIAA executive director Steven Timko.