Texas House Bill HB2017

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the removal of a public school student from an interscholastic athletic activity on the basis of a suspected concussion.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2017 will modify existing regulations which govern how public schools manage student participation in athletic activities by reinforcing health and safety protocols. The direct impact will be a more standardized approach to concussion management across Texas public schools, as schools will now be required to have protocols in place that align with this mandate. This could potentially lead to improved awareness and education about concussions among coaches and school personnel, as well as promote a safer environment for student athletes.

Summary

House Bill 2017 addresses the issue of student safety in interscholastic athletics by mandating the immediate removal of a student from a practice or competition if there is suspicion of a concussion. The bill outlines specific parties who are empowered to make this determination, including coaches, physicians, licensed health care professionals, and even the student's parents or guardians. This provision aims to ensure that students are protected from potential long-term health consequences associated with concussions, a significant concern in youth sports today.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on student health, discussions surrounding it may reveal differing perspectives on the implications for school districts, including the potential financial burden of implementing new safety protocols. Additionally, there may be concerns about how this bill could influence the dynamics of competition among schools. Proponents of the bill are likely to emphasize the importance of student safety and well-being, while some may argue that the enforcement of such measures could lead to overregulation or hinder the freedom of coaches in managing their teams.