Bill > HB1393

This bill aims to enhance safety and transparency in youth sports programs by introducing several key requirements. The legislation mandates that youth sports programs (defined as recreational athletic programs for participants under 19) maintain an annual registry of all program personnel, including coaches, officials, and staff. This registry must include a photo ID, a criminal background screening (either a state-level criminal history check or a comprehensive commercial screening), a signed acknowledgment of the program's safety policies, and documentation of annual training in areas like heat illness recognition, concussion awareness, child safety, and appropriate contact training levels. Personnel must register yearly and display proof of registration at athletic events. Additionally, the bill requires programs to provide parents or guardians of registered youth athletes with detailed information about sports-related head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, heat illness, and the program's removal and return-to-play policies. Parents must sign an acknowledgment of receiving this information, and the program must make its removal and return-to-play policy available to personnel and parents, as well as post it on their website if one exists. These provisions apply to youth sports programs below the high school level and are designed to prioritize athlete safety and ensure informed participation. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1393?ys=2025RS