Bill > H4298

This bill amends South Carolina's existing law on concussion protocols for student athletes by introducing comprehensive requirements for concussion recognition, management, and recovery in school sports. The legislation mandates that the Department of Health and Environmental Control publish guidelines for identifying and managing concussions, which local school districts must then develop into specific protocols. The bill requires all coaches, volunteers, student athletes, and parents to receive annual information about concussion risks, and mandates online training for coaches and staff on concussion recognition using programs like the CDC's HEADS UP training. If a student athlete is suspected of having a concussion, they must be immediately removed from play and can only return after receiving written medical clearance from a physician. The bill also introduces a "return to learn" protocol, requiring schools to provide academic accommodations for students recovering from concussions and follow a graduated return-to-play progression recommended by the CDC. Schools must maintain records of concussion management for five years, and the bill explicitly includes cheerleaders in the definition of student athletes. Importantly, medical professionals making return-to-play decisions are granted civil immunity as long as they are not grossly negligent.

Education

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4298&session=126&summary=B