This bill amends existing legislation to mandate the use of annual baseline concussion testing for student-athletes and cheerleaders in grades six through 12 participating in school-organized athletic programs. It requires each school district to revise its written concussion policy to include this testing by July 1 of the first full school year following the bill's enactment. The Department of Education (DOE) is also tasked with updating the athletic head injury safety training program and the model policy to reflect this requirement. Baseline concussion testing is defined as a neurocognitive exam conducted before the athletic season to assess the pre-symptomatic brain functions of student-athletes and cheerleaders.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that when evaluating a student-athlete or cheerleader suspected of having a concussion, healthcare providers must consider the results of their most recent baseline concussion test before granting clearance to return to competition or practice. Additionally, the continuing education requirements for licensed athletic trainers will now include training on the use of baseline concussion testing, ensuring that they are well-equipped to manage and prevent sports-related concussions effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:40-41.2, 18A:40-41.3, 18A:40-41.4, 45:9-37.48