New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1803

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Requires public school students with concussion to be evaluated by licensed health care professionals before return to school; requires school districts to provide restrictions or limitations to student as needed.

Impact

The bill emphasizes the importance of health professionals in the academic setting, particularly regarding students' recovery from concussions. Once a student is evaluated and if restrictions are advised, the school district's 504 team is responsible for implementing these restrictions. This team must notify all relevant teachers and staff, ensuring that the student's health needs are considered in their education plan. This could lead to improved responses to student health issues within the school system.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1803 mandates that any student enrolled in a public school district who sustains a concussion must undergo an evaluation by a licensed health care professional. This evaluation is a prerequisite for the student to receive written clearance to return to school. The bill aims to ensure that adequate health checks are conducted for students who have experienced a concussion, promoting a safer environment for recovery and educational reintegration.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A1803 may include concerns over the administrative burden on school districts to monitor and implement these health evaluations and restrictions. Additionally, there could be discussions about the interpretation of what constitutes a 'licensed health care professional' and the scope of their evaluations. It raises questions about access to such professionals, especially in underserved areas, potentially impacting the bill’s effectiveness in ensuring that all students receive the necessary evaluation and support following a concussion.

Companion Bills

NJ S695

Same As Requires public school student with concussion to be evaluated by physician or other licensed health care provider before return to school and return to physical activity at school.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1582

Requires public school students with concussion to be evaluated by licensed health care professionals before return to school; requires school districts to provide restrictions or limitations to student as needed.

NJ S1195

Requires public school student with concussion to be evaluated by physician or other licensed health care provider before return to school and return to physical activity at school.

NJ S695

Requires public school student with concussion to be evaluated by physician or other licensed health care provider before return to school and return to physical activity at school.

NJ A4075

Requires public schools to develop threat assessment teams.

NJ A1822

Requires school district to establish "School Meal Fund" to assist students with school meal bill in arrears.

NJ A3241

Allows other licensed healthcare providers trained in evaluation and management of concussions in addition to physicians to provide written clearance for student-athlete return to competition.

NJ A1642

Allows other licensed healthcare providers trained in evaluation and management of concussions in addition to physicians to provide written clearance for student-athlete return to competition.

NJ SB82

Requiring schools to establish policies and concussion management teams to prevent and manage concussions within school.

NJ A1181

Requires high school students to complete financial aid applications.

NJ A1174

Requires certain documentation of needs of students with disabilities during school security drills and emergency situations and in school security plans; requires staff training on needs of students with disabilities in emergency planning.

Similar Bills

NJ A1582

Requires public school students with concussion to be evaluated by licensed health care professionals before return to school; requires school districts to provide restrictions or limitations to student as needed.

NJ A5417

Prohibits limiting number of county college credits that may be applied towards educator preparation program and teacher certification requirements.

NJ S896

Prohibits State Board of Education from requiring completion of performance-based assessment as condition of eligibility for certificate of eligibility with advanced standing or certificate of eligibility.

NJ A841

Permits person with special needs to voluntarily make notation on driver's license and identification card.

NJ A677

Prohibits State Board of Education from requiring completion of performance-based assessment as condition of eligibility for certificate of eligibility with advanced standing or certificate of eligibility.

NJ A1912

Requires institution of higher education to report allegation of sexual misconduct by health care professional to licensing board for investigation.

NJ A2303

Requires institution of higher education to report allegation of sexual misconduct by health care professional to licensing board for investigation.

NJ A941

Permits emergency medical technicians to administer certain vaccines during certain declared public health emergencies.