Softball versus Baseball Stolen Base

Question
Please do not be offended, but is a "stolen base" in Softball really a "stolen base"? In other words...is a baserunner allowed to "steal"?

It seems that 20-40 years ago that we were not allowed to "steal" a base in softball.

Please clarify the definition of "base stealing" for Softball versus Baseball and tell me if a baserunner is allowed to steal a base now or was allowed to about 30 years ago.

Thank you very much in advance!

Answer
Hello QUINNRIGBY,
Thank you for your question.  Don't worry, I wasn't offended by it!  

In ASA and NFHS fast pitch softball, stealing is allowed.  I don't have any access to 20 to 40-year-old rule books, but as far as I know stealing has always been allowed.  It is restricted, however.  If the ball is in the 16' pitching circle and in possession of the pitcher, stealing is allowed only under certain circumstances, governed by a somewhat complicated and screwy rule called the look back rule.  During a pitch, before stealing a runner must remain on their base until after the ball leaves the pitcher's hand.   

In ASA slow pitch softball, stealing is only allowed in some adult play.  Where allowed, before stealing a runner must remain on their base until the pitch reaches the front edge of home plate.  Slow pitch with stealing was introduced to the ASA game just a few years ago.

In NFHS slow pitch softball, stealing is not allowed.

In baseball there is no pitching circle so there is no look back rule.  As well, a runner may or may not remain on their base, and are permitted to steal before or after the ball leaves the pitcher's hand.

Hope this helps, Scott Kelly