The proposed bill, known as the Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act, aims to enhance the safety of student athletes in West Virginia, particularly in football. It mandates the Board of Education to create a legislative rule, in collaboration with the Board of Physical Therapy, to establish a comprehensive concussion protocol, education, and training program. Schools will be required to adopt a Concussion Education, Prevention, and Response Plan, and student athletes participating in school-organized football practices must use impact-reducing soft-shell helmet covers. The bill also includes provisions for warranty and certification protections related to the use of this safety equipment.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Cohen Craddock Memorial Grant Program, which will be administered by the Department of Education to provide funding for schools or county boards of education to acquire safety equipment. The program will operate on a first-come-first-serve basis, with grants funded through various sources, including state appropriations and private donations. A special revenue fund, the Cohen Craddock Memorial Grant Fund, will be created to support this initiative, ensuring that any unspent funds remain available for future safety equipment needs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-36-1, 18-36-2, 18-36-3, 18-36-4, 18-36-5, 18-36-6