Bill Could Require New Measures to Prevent Concussions
JACKSON, Tenn. – Wednesday, the Tennessee Senate Education Committee unanimously approved Bill 882, which would require all schools and youth sports organizations to adopt concussions policies. Tennessee is currently one of only 11 states without a law to protect athletes from concussions, a similar proposal failed last year. The bill, sponsored by Senator Jim Tracy is meant to help athletes coaches and parents recognize the symptoms of a concussion. But it is an issue that has sparked debated in every league from the Pee Wee’s to the pros. Sabrina Anderson, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club thinks this type of legislation will deter children from being active. “It’s not going to change sports… you can’t prepare for everything that’s going to happen… all you can do is make yourself and your children as safe as possible,” she said. More than 300,000 athletes were treated for concussions last year according to the CDC a 74 percent increase from 2010. “I don’t think legislation is needed I think parents know the dangers when their children play contact sports,” Anderson said. Under Senate Bill 882 schools and youth leagues would be required to adopt guidelines to educate about symptoms of head injuries. It also requires athletes with a concussion to be removed from athletics until cleared by a doctor. Jackson parent Tiffany Green said she worries about her children’s safety when playing sports. “If passing a law is going to make us adults more accountable for our students then it’s something we need to do,” she said. Anderson and other youth leagues like the YMCA have come out against the bill. They said not only would it cost the organizations extra money but it would require coaches and parents to make decisions only doctors are qualified for. “I think parents may not want their kids to participate if they know their going to sign additional waivers and documents,” said Anderson. Green said even if the bill saves one child from a concussion, it is worth it. “Speaking as a parent there is no amount of money I wouldn’t be willing to pay to make sure my children are safe.”
