Iowa House Bill HSB89

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/25/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to concussion and brain injury training for renewals of coaching authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners.

Impact

The enactment of HSB89 will amend the Iowa Code by adding a new training requirement for coaching authorization renewals, essentially updating existing standards to reflect growing concerns regarding health and safety in sports. Currently, while coaches must receive annual concussion training, this bill would solidify the necessity of this training at the time of renewal, which occurs every five years. This change signifies a proactive approach to combating the risks associated with concussions, particularly among young athletes.

Summary

House Study Bill 89 (HSB89) is intended to enhance safety measures in schools by mandating additional training for coaches in relation to concussions and brain injuries. The bill stipulates that applicants renewing their coaching authorizations with the Board of Educational Examiners must complete a course dedicated to concussion training. This requirement aims to ensure that coaches are adequately equipped to recognize and manage concussion-related issues among student-athletes, thereby promoting a safer sporting environment in educational settings.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as a positive step toward enhancing athlete safety, it may encounter some contention over the additional requirements placed on coaches. Some stakeholders may argue that the financial and time costs associated with obtaining this training could pose challenges, especially for coaches at smaller schools or those already managing tight schedules. However, proponents contend that the long-term benefits of improved awareness and response to concussions far outweigh these concerns, ultimately supporting the health of student-athletes.