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SAFE PLAY Act
12/29/2022, 11:03 PM
Summary of Bill HR 7478
One of the key provisions of the SAFE PLAY Act is the requirement for all youth sports organizations to conduct background checks on all coaches and volunteers who work with children. This is aimed at preventing individuals with a history of abuse or misconduct from being involved in youth sports programs.
Additionally, the bill calls for increased training for coaches and volunteers on topics such as concussion awareness, first aid, and proper equipment usage. This is intended to ensure that those working with children are well-equipped to handle any potential injuries or emergencies that may arise during sports activities. Furthermore, the SAFE PLAY Act includes provisions for the establishment of a national database of banned coaches and volunteers, which would help prevent individuals who have been found guilty of abuse or misconduct from moving from one organization to another. Overall, the SAFE PLAY Act seeks to prioritize the safety and well-being of children participating in youth sports programs by implementing stricter regulations and requirements for coaches and volunteers. If passed, this legislation could have a significant impact on the way youth sports programs are run in the United States.
Congressional Summary of HR 7478
Supporting Athletes, Families and Educators to Protect the Lives of Athletic Youth Act or the SAFE PLAY Act
This bill directs several agencies to undertake specified activities and expand surveillance related to cardiac conditions, concussions, and heat-related illnesses among young athletes. The bill also establishes requirements for schools with respect to concussions and excessive heat.
Specifically, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) must (1) develop information for schools, childcare centers, and others on high-risk cardiac conditions in children, adolescents, and young adults; and (2) incorporate questions about cardiac conditions in an existing school-based health survey.
In addition, the CDC must develop guidelines for emergency action plans for youth athletics programs, and the Food and Drug Administration may issue guidelines related to youth consumption of energy drinks.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) must award matching grants to local educational agencies for automated external defibrillator and cardiopulmonary resuscitation trainings.
The Department of Education, in consultation with HHS and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, must develop public education materials focused on the health risks of exposure to extreme heat and humidity, and public schools must develop action plans for athletic activities during periods of excessive heat or humidity.
The bill establishes minimum requirements for elementary and secondary schools related to concussions, including but not limited to (1) implementing a standard plan for concussion safety and management, and (2) ensuring students returning to academics after a concussion receive certain services and supports.
