If enacted, AB 2410 would amend the Business and Professions Code by making it unlawful for any individual to claim the title of athletic trainer without proper certification and accreditation. This change is expected to professionalize the field, reducing the risk of individuals practicing without the necessary qualifications. The urgency of the bill is expressed through its immediate effect once passed, underscoring the necessity for qualified athletic trainers within both educational and professional sports contexts.
Assembly Bill 2410, introduced by Assembly Member Cunningham, establishes new regulations regarding the title and responsibilities of athletic trainers in California. The bill aims to ensure that only qualified individuals, certified by recognized bodies, can present themselves as athletic trainers. As part of the regulations, it distinguishes between individuals who meet the required educational and supervisory standards and those who do not. The bill's introduction highlights existing gaps in certification oversight and aims to provide better protection for athletes and consumers who may rely on the services of athletic trainers.
The act is classified as an urgency statute, meaning it needs to take effect immediately in order to safeguard public health and safety. This classification implies that there is a palpable need for qualified athletic trainers, especially given the critical nature of their role in supporting athletes' health and injuries management.
The bill has drawn attention from various stakeholders within the athletic community. Supporters argue that it is essential for maintaining high standards in athlete care and ensuring that those providing such services are well-trained. However, opponents may raise concerns regarding the impact on individuals who have significant experience in the field but lack formal certification. Notably, the bill includes a provision that allows those who have worked as athletic trainers for 20 consecutive years prior to January 1, 2021, to retain the title, which might be seen as a compromise to appease experienced professionals.