Bill > S0319

This bill updates Rhode Island's approach to concussion management in school athletics by establishing comprehensive protocols for preventing, identifying, and managing concussions in youth sports. The legislation requires each school district to form a concussion oversight team that will develop detailed return-to-play and return-to-learn protocols based on scientific evidence from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The bill defines key terms like "concussion" and "interscholastic athletic activity" and mandates that students cannot participate in school sports until they and their parents/guardians sign a form acknowledging they understand concussion risks. The bill requires that any student suspected of having a concussion must be immediately removed from athletic practice or competition by coaches, officials, athletic trainers, or other designated personnel. Before a student can return to play, they must be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional, complete return-to-play and return-to-learn protocols, and obtain written clearance stating it is safe for them to resume activities. The new law replaces an existing chapter on the subject and will take effect on July 1, 2025, with the goal of protecting student-athletes from potential long-term health risks associated with concussions.

Education

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