HB1140
To Define Healthcare Provider Regarding Student Athlete Concussion Education.
Last Action (Jan. 15, 2025): WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Bill 1140 amends Arkansas Code § 6-18-710(a) to explicitly define the term 'healthcare provider' within the context of student athlete concussion education. The bill provides a specific list of licensed or certified professionals authorized to administer health care, including physicians, doctors of osteopathic medicine, neuropsychologists, advanced practice registered nurses, certified athletic trainers, physician assistants, and physical therapists. Additionally, the bill refines the definition of 'youth athletic activity' to clarify that it applies to organized activities where a majority of participants are under nineteen years of age. It specifies that this definition does not include college or university activities or activities incidental to non-athletic programs. The primary purpose of the bill is to establish legal clarity regarding who qualifies as a healthcare provider for concussion-related protocols in youth sports.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries include youth sports organizations, school athletic departments, and parents, as the bill provides a clearer, codified list of qualified professionals authorized to handle concussion education and clearance. Additionally, the listed healthcare professionals—such as certified athletic trainers, physician assistants, and physical therapists—benefit from clear legal recognition of their authority to act within this capacity under state law.
Who Might Suffer?
There are no significant groups negatively impacted by this legislation, as it serves to provide regulatory clarity and definition to existing safety requirements. Organizations or individuals who do not fall within the enumerated categories of licensed or certified healthcare providers may face clearer limitations regarding their authority to provide formal concussion-related medical assessments or clearance in a youth athletic context.
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