This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 18-2-47, to the Code of West Virginia, mandating that public high schools employ full-time athletic trainers. County boards are required to provide adequate medical services for high school student-athletes and must hire at least one licensed athletic trainer for each high school involved in organized sports, ROTC, and performing arts. The bill allows counties to either directly hire these trainers or contract with healthcare facilities or universities for their services, with funding options including annual budgets, levies, or COVID CARES ACT funds.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that only certified athletic trainers licensed by the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy can perform specialized health procedures related to athletic participation. These procedures include concussion management, musculoskeletal injury evaluation, and other health assessments. The athletic trainers will also be responsible for ensuring compliance with relevant West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission (WVSSAC) policies regarding health and safety in sports.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2-47