CT HB05199

Establishes a task force to examine athletic trainer shortages in Connecticut and methods to recruit and retain athletic trainers in the state.

Task force shall evaluate licensure fees, incentives for master's degree holders, workshop opportunities for high school students, undergraduate programs, scholarship funding, career equity and salary disparities, and student loan forgiveness opportunities for athletic trainers.

Task force consists of 13 members appointed by legislative leaders and the Commissioner of Public Health, including athletic trainers from various settings, higher education faculty, an orthopedic physician, athletic directors, school nurses, and representatives of athletic organizations.

All initial appointments must be made within 30 days of passage, with the first meeting held no later than 60 days after passage.

Task force shall submit findings and recommendations to the joint standing committee on public health no later than January 1, 2025, and shall terminate upon submission of report or January 1, 2025, whichever is later.