Senate Bill No. 260, introduced by Senator Edmonds, aims to amend existing liability laws related to youth athletics in Louisiana. The bill modifies R.S. 9:2798(B)(1) to include a requirement that volunteer athletic coaches, managers, athletic trainers, team volunteer health care providers, or sports team officials must participate in a safety orientation and training program, which can now also include a new "youth injury mitigation and information course." This course is designed to cover various topics such as emergency preparedness, concussions, heat-related injuries, musculoskeletal overuse, and heart defects that could lead to sudden cardiac death.
Additionally, the bill enacts R.S. 9:2798(D)(4), which defines the "injury mitigation course" and outlines its content requirements. The proposed changes aim to enhance the safety and preparedness of individuals involved in youth athletics, thereby providing them with a limitation of liability if they complete the necessary training. The new provisions are set to take effect on August 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: SB260 Original: 9:2798(B)(1)