New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S695

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

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.

Impact

If enacted, S695 will amend existing state laws concerning public school student health policies, specifically integrating requirements on how schools handle concussions. The bill mandates that the school's 504 team, which is responsible for accommodating students with disabilities, must promptly implement any restrictions or limitations advised by a physician. This ensures that all teachers and staff are informed of a student’s needs during recovery, thereby fostering a supportive educational environment.

Summary

Senate Bill S695 aims to enhance student safety in public schools by mandating that any student who sustains a concussion must undergo an evaluation by a physician or another licensed health care provider trained in concussion management. The bill emphasizes the importance of medical oversight in the return-to-learn and return-to-play protocols for students, ensuring that they receive the necessary care before resuming academic or physical activities. Written clearance from a qualified physician is a prerequisite for students to return to school after a concussion, underlining the bill’s focus on student health and safety.

Contention

While many advocate for the bill, pointing to the rising awareness of concussion impacts in sports and academics, there are concerns about the additional responsibilities placed on schools and healthcare practitioners. Critics argue about the potential administrative burdens and the requirement for timely medical evaluations, which may not always be feasible. Additionally, there could be disparities in access to qualified healthcare providers, especially in rural or underserved areas, prompting concern over equitable treatment for all students.

Companion Bills

NJ A1803

Same As 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.

Previously Filed As

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 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 A1803

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 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 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 SB82

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

NJ S0319

Replaces the existing chapter on this subject by requiring school districts to organize concussion oversight teams, develop removal-from-play, return-to-play, and return-to-learn protocols, and develop a concussion brochure.

NJ H5489

Replaces the existing chapter on this subject by requiring school districts to organize concussion oversight teams, develop removal-from-play, return-to-play, and return-to-learn protocols, and develop a concussion brochure.

NJ H4298

Concussion protocols in schools

NJ HB05130

An Act Concerning Clearance Of Student Athletes With Concussions For Participation In Team Activities.

Similar Bills

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 A2003

Restricts use of restrictive employment covenants for physicians and nurses.

NJ A1819

Restricts use of restrictive employment covenants for physicians and nurses.

NJ S4068

Restricts use of restrictive employment covenants for physicians and nurses.

RI H7150

Expands the rights of physician assistants with regard to their practice and prohibits non-compete clauses that exceed five years with regard to the purchase and sale of a practice.

RI S2182

Expands the rights of physician assistants with regard to their practice and prohibits non-compete clauses that exceed five years with regard to the purchase and sale of a practice.

RI S0279

Physician Assistants

RI H5284

Physician Assistants