World Rugby has approved four Global Law Trials. These will take effect as new laws in the USA on January 1, 2025 for rugby at all levels and all versions.

The Trial laws are very close to the way we have previously recommended referees officiate these phases anyway, so – while these are important changes and teams should ensure that all players understand them – they should not change the way the game is played.

• Changes are made for cleaner play from scrums, rucks, and mauls. Players who were part of a ruck or maul may not play an opponent taking the ball from the ruck or maul. At scrums, the scrum-half of the team not in possession may not go past the center of the tunnel.
• Conversion kicks must be taken within 60 seconds (down from 90) [the 30 second limit remains for Sevens].
• Lineouts must be formed within 30 seconds (the same as already in law for scrums.)
• Play continues on a throw not straight at an uncontested lineout.

USA Rugby will be hosting a webinar to review the changes and answer your questions on Tuesday, 7 January 2025, 8:30pm EST.

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