Bill > H0563

This bill aims to prevent repetitive head impacts in sports by establishing comprehensive educational and safety measures. The legislation creates a new law requiring parents registering children for high-risk sports (such as football, soccer, and hockey) to receive standardized educational materials about brain health, including information on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain condition caused by repeated head impacts. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, parents must sign an acknowledgment form after receiving these materials, which will explain the science of head impacts, associated risks, and symptoms of brain injury. The bill also mandates annual training for athletic directors, coaches, referees, and trainers in high-risk sports, and establishes the Florida Brain Health in Sports Panel within the Department of Health to provide annual reports and recommendations to the Legislature. Additionally, the bill creates a state observance called "Parkman-Lewis Day" on September 24th to raise awareness about head injuries, named after two individuals presumably impacted by repetitive head trauma. The legislation recognizes that youth under 18 are particularly vulnerable to brain injuries and seeks to protect them through education, awareness, and informed consent, with the broader goals of reducing health and social costs associated with brain injuries.

Education

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/563