Youth Athletic Activities
The enactment of HB 823 is expected to impact state laws significantly by mandating improved training for personnel involved with youth sports on state or local property. This requirement aims to decrease the likelihood of serious injuries among child athletes participating in sports like football, soccer, baseball, and cheerleading. Additionally, the emphasis on record-keeping for those who complete the training course intends to foster accountability among organizations managing youth athletic programs. The Department of Health is tasked with implementing the rules associated with this training requirement.
House Bill 823 is aimed at improving safety standards for youth athletic activities in Florida, specifically for those deemed 'high-risk' for children aged 14 years and younger. The bill outlines the requirement for any entity that conducts high-risk youth athletic activities to ensure that unpaid or volunteer personnel are trained in injury prevention methods. This educational course must cover various aspects such as emergency preparedness, concussion management, and injuries related to heat or extreme weather conditions. The bill stipulates that these training courses must be completed within 30 days of the individual's initial involvement and subsequently on an annual basis.
While the bill garners support for its focus on enhancing safety measures in youth sports, concerns may arise regarding the implications for volunteer organizations and the potential administrative burden associated with maintaining training records. Furthermore, the requirement that training be accessible and free for volunteers, although beneficial, raises questions about the capacity of local organizations to comply with the new standards without additional resources. An exemption is provided for licensed athletic trainers, which may stir discussions about the appropriateness of such exclusions in promoting uniform safety protocols across all personnel involved in youth athletic activities.