(SACRAMENTO, CA)- The Assembly passed AB 2007 (McCarty, D-Sacramento) today with bipartisan support. The Concussion Management Youth Sports Act would help protect youth sports participants from injury by requiring a similar protocol to be observed as those in place for high school athletes. Sponsored by the California Athletic Trainers Association, the bill’s lead witness has been Dr. Bennet Omalu who pioneered research into traumatic brain injury due to concussion.
“Sports are embedded in our culture and we must ensure that our youth athletes, coaches, and parents are aware of the severity of a concussion,” said Assemblymember McCarty. “This legislation will guarantee that all participants involved in youth sports are aware of the signs and symptoms of a concussion, and take appropriate steps to prevent serious injury.”
“Concussions can happen at any age, so it’s imperative that proper prevention strategies and post injury protocols be observed at the youth sports level,” said Mike Chisar, governmental affairs committee chair for the California Athletics Trainers’ Association. “This bill is a step in the right direction, and coincides with CATA’s ongoing efforts to protect all athletes and physically active individuals. We are proud to sponsor this bill.”
In committee former NFL player George Visger discussed the challenges he faces every day after suffering multiple concussions while playing. During his testimony, he stated, “Studies have shown the earlier you are concussed the more predisposed you are, the lower the threshold for the next concussions.”
The bill is now on its way to Governor for his signature.