Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB155

Filed
11/14/16  
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to requirements for participants in extracurricular athletic activities sponsored or sanctioned by the University Interscholastic League, including a sudden cardiac arrest awareness form.

Impact

The bill has implications for school districts across Texas, as it requires them to implement a new layer of documentation related to student participation in sports. Schools will need to ensure that all participating students have a signed awareness form in addition to any required physical examination documentation. This legislation aims to foster a safer environment for young athletes by emphasizing awareness and education around the serious issue of sudden cardiac arrest, ultimately seeking to prevent tragic incidents during athletic activities.

Summary

SB155 focuses on enhancing the safety of student athletes participating in extracurricular activities sanctioned by the University Interscholastic League (UIL) by introducing requirements related to sudden cardiac arrest awareness. Specifically, the bill mandates the creation of an informational form that must be provided to parents or guardians of students wishing to participate in UIL-sponsored athletic activities. This form is intended to inform and educate families about the risks associated with sudden cardiac arrest, including its causes, symptoms, treatments, and screening options to discuss with a physician.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB155 appears to be positive, with broad support from parents, health advocates, and educational organizations that emphasize the importance of student safety in sports. The proposition is viewed favorably as a proactive measure to protect young athletes, aiming to increase awareness among parents and reduce the risk associated with sudden cardiac arrest. However, there could be some concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on schools and the potential need for resources to effectively implement these requirements.

Contention

While the bill generally received support, certain points of contention may arise concerning the feasibility and logistics of enforcing the new documentation requirements. Some legislators and school administrators might express concerns about the added responsibilities placed on districts, including the potential need for additional training or resources to ensure compliance with the new requirements. The bill hinges on the balance of ensuring student safety while managing the administrative aspects burdening educational institutions.

Companion Bills

TX HB3476

Very Similar Relating to cardiac assessments of high school participants in extracurricular athletic activities sponsored or sanctioned by the University Interscholastic League.

Previously Filed As

TX HB691

Relating to prevention of and safety requirements regarding sudden cardiac arrest affecting public school students participating in interscholastic athletics.

TX HB699

Relating to determining the student enrollment of a public school that allows non-enrolled students to participate in University Interscholastic League activities for purposes of assigning a University Interscholastic League classification.

TX HB38

Relating to hearings held by or involving the University Interscholastic League.

TX HB1802

Relating to the compensation and professional representation of certain students participating in University Interscholastic League activities or in intercollegiate athletic programs at certain institutions of higher education.

TX SB971

Relating to the compensation and professional representation of certain students participating in University Interscholastic League activities or in intercollegiate athletic programs at certain institutions of higher education.

TX HB4459

Relating to the hearings held by or involving the University Interscholastic League.

TX HB3708

Relating to creating an allotment under the Foundation School Program for school districts that allow non-enrolled students to participate in University Interscholastic League activities.

TX HB23

Relating to participation in athletic activities based on biological sex; providing a civil right to action for K-12 athletes and college athletes.

TX HB4461

Relating to the requirements for hearings conducted by the University Interscholastic League.

TX HB32

Relating to the requirements for hearings conducted by the University Interscholastic League.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.