USASB slow pitch change?
 

From the 2025 Rules Book:

B. (Men’s, Women’s and Coed Class C, D and E/REC) The pitcher may take a
position from the front edge of the pitcher’s plate to 6 feet behind the pitcher’s
plate within the 24 inch width of the pitcher’s plate with both feet firmly on the
ground.

From the 2026 Rules Book:

B. (Men’s, Women’s and Coed Class C, D and E/REC) The pitcher may take a position
from the front edge of the pitcher’s plate with both feet firmly on the ground and
with one or both feet within the 24-inch length of the pitcher’s plate.

Does this mean that pitchers can no longer start up to 6 feet behind the pitcher's plate?

The Rules Changes list included the 6 feet. There is a mistake in the print version. Some research needed.

The online version accessed through the main USA Softball site is correct. Official Rulebook - USA Softball

(Men’s, Women’s and Coed Class C, D and E/REC) The pitcher may take a position from the front edge of the pitcher’s plate to 6 feet behind the pitcher’s plate with both feet firmly on the ground and with one or both feet within the 24-inch
length of the pitcher’s plate.

I saw another on a State web site which has the wrong wording you quoted.

I did download the document from the USASB website.

Apparently, there is now an updated version of the Rules Book that has a reference date of 1-12-26 (noted on what is Page 1). This one does include the reference to the 6 foot allowance.

I haven't seen a printed copy yet. I'm wondering what might or might not be included.

I am trying to find out what the printer mistake is, although I don't care until March. Check your sources.