Bobby Madden expects Scottish referees will award more penalties next season as a new handball rule comes into force across the SPFL .
The SFA whistler believes the updated law provides more clarity over what constitutes an offence.
The old rule was based on the handball being deliberate but there will now be more focus on a player's body position as well as any intent.
The International Football Association Board have dictated a free-kick or penalty will be given if a player makes his body an "unnatural silhouette" or if the arm is above shoulder height.
And while Madden insists refs will still use a level of discretion, he says the issue is now much less ambiguous.
Asked if the change will result in more penalties next term, he told STV : "I think so, I really do believe it will.
"In terms of ambiguity, the new criteria really clears that up.
"It's about unnatural position and enlarging the body, so there's clear definition there of what should be considered handball.
"There will still be a degree of interpretation there but I think it's clearer."
As well as updated handball regulations, penalty kicks have also been given an overhaul.
A keeper must now have at least one foot on the line when a spot-kick is taken and cannot stand behind the line.
The rule caused controversy at the Women's World Cup earlier this summer, with Scotland suffering a heartbreaking exit due in part to a penalty retaken under the new law.
Argentina's Florencia Bonsegundo scored a re-take in the 94th minute after her first penalty was saved by Lee Alexander.
The goal ensured Shelley Kerr's side crashed out of the tournament having thrown away a three-goal lead.
