Doctors could soon be deciding when injured student athletes are allowed to return to competition.
A bill, co-authored by Democratic Assembly member Mary Hayashi, would give health professionals the last word. She said doctors know better than coaches and players when it’s safe for a student athlete to return to the game.
“Kids want to stay in the game and believe that they can be tough and play through injuries, but when it comes to concussions this kind of enthusiasm can be life threatening,” Hayashi said.
The bill would require that student athletes who sustain head injuries be removed from competition immediately. They wouldn’t be allowed to return until they’re cleared by a health professional. A doctor, as well as the child’s guardian must sign a note approving the return to play. Nonprofits and other groups using public school space would also have to abide by these guidelines.
Hayashi said the bill would have no cost to tax payers.
