AL HB547

Public K-12 school athletic teams are prohibited from competing against nonpublic school athletic teams in any post-season championship programs or interscholastic athletic events after the regular season.

Public K-12 schools cannot be members of athletic associations that prohibit or discourage member schools from competing against nonmember schools in contests, scrimmages, jamborees, or matches.

Public K-12 schools cannot be members of athletic associations that unreasonably withhold approval or support for another athletic association's application to become a National Federation of State High School Associations affiliate member.

Public K-12 schools may only compete against nonmember schools that belong to athletic associations meeting seven minimum criteria, including preparticipation physical examinations, comprehensive concussion management protocols, compliance with National Federation rules, age restrictions (under 19 years old on August 1), and certified game officials.

The bill becomes effective on October 1, 2025, and does not affect the membership status of nonpublic schools in primarily public school athletic associations or the autonomy of nonpublic schools under state law.