Bill > S2373

This bill, named the "Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act," requires colleges and secondary schools that receive federal funding to develop and implement comprehensive emergency action plans to prevent and respond to heat-related illnesses among student athletes. The bill was inspired by the tragic death of Jordan McNair, a University of Maryland football player who died from exertional heatstroke in 2018 after inadequate medical treatment. Specifically, the bill mandates that these educational institutions create venue-specific plans that include symptom identification structures, coordination of care protocols, and the placement of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) and cold water immersion equipment. These plans must be visibly posted in athletic facilities, distributed to emergency responders, and practiced annually by student athletes, coaches, medical staff, and other relevant personnel. The institutions must also consider using the Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature index to assess environmental conditions and heat stress risks. Additionally, the bill requires schools to submit annual compliance reports to the Secretary of Education and directs the Secretary to inform schools about available federal grants for heat-related illness prevention training and equipment. The underlying goal is to prevent heat-related injuries and fatalities by ensuring early recognition and prompt, appropriate treatment of symptoms.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2373/all-info