Ohio House Bill HB82

Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/23

Caption

Require school athletic coaches complete mental health training

Impact

Once enacted, HB82 will alter existing statutes related to school athletic programs by mandating mental health training for coaches. This bill aims to highlight the importance of recognizing mental health issues among students, particularly in high-pressure environments such as competitive sports. The new regulation aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and potentially lead to better outcomes for student-athletes by fostering a more supportive atmosphere.

Summary

House Bill 82 requires that all athletic coaches in schools, whether publicly operated or chartered, complete a mental health training course approved by the department of mental health. The intent is to ensure that coaches are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to support the mental wellbeing of student-athletes. Additionally, the bill aims to formalize and update requirements related to the renewal of permits for pupil-activity programs, emphasizing the importance of mental health training within the broader context of student safety in sports.

Contention

Despite the bill's potential benefits, discussions surrounding its implementation may reveal points of contention, especially concerning the logistics of training delivery and the additional requirements placed on coaches. There may be concerns regarding the adequacy of the training programs, their frequency, and how they integrate with existing coach certification processes. Furthermore, some stakeholders may view the imposition of these requirements as an unnecessary burden that could deter potential coaches from participating in student athletics.