By: Amanda Sundquist
On November 9, 2011, the “Safety in Youth Sports Act” was signed into law. The Act addresses concussion and head injury risks for student athletes and the education of the coaching staff.
School districts have new parent notification obligations under the Act. Prior to participation of a student athlete in an athletic activity, the student and his or her parent/guardian shall receive a concussion and traumatic brain injury information sheet and must return a signed acknowledgment of receipt. School districts may elect to hold informational meetings prior to the start of each athletic season regarding concussions and other head injuries.
Coaches are required to complete a concussion management certification training course once a year to be able to coach athletic activities. The Act also contains standards regarding removal from play and return to play for students athletes. School districts are required to establish minimum penalties for coaches who fail to comply with the removal from play and return to play requirements.
The Safety in Youth Sports Act will go into effect July 1, 2012. If you require assistance developing policies and forms relating your school district’s obligations under this new Act, please contact Amanda Sundquist in our West Chester office.
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