Iowa House Bill HF858

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Engrossed: 3/20/25
• Refer: 3/24/25

Caption

A bill for an act relating to concussion and brain injury training for coaches.(Formerly HSB 220.)

Impact

If enacted, HF858 will amend existing provisions related to concussion and brain injury training. The bill emphasizes the importance of education and awareness in preventing injuries, equipping coaches with the necessary knowledge to identify symptoms, assess risks, and understand the implications of brain injuries. By ensuring that all coaches participate in up-to-date training, the bill aims to create a safer sports environment for youth, potentially reducing the incidence of undiagnosed concussions and serious injury.

Summary

House File 858 aims to enhance the safety of youth sports by mandating training specifically focused on concussion and brain injury awareness for coaches and contest officials. The bill requires that these individuals undergo training developed by the Department of Health and Human Services, Iowa High School Athletic Association, and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union every two years. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns over the long-term effects of concussions in sports, particularly for younger athletes whose brains are still developing.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed as a positive step in promoting health and safety in athletic programs, there could be concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing mandatory training for all coaches, especially at smaller schools or recreational leagues that may not have the financial resources to support these requirements. Additionally, questions may arise around the adequacy and consistency of the training programs developed, as they must effectively cover various aspects of concussion management and align with current best practices.