FL S0730

Independent sanctioning authorities must adopt guidelines educating officials, administrators, coaches, youth athletes, and parents about the nature and risk of concussion and head injury.

Parents or guardians of youth and student athletes must sign and return a consent form explaining the nature and risks of concussion and head injury before participation in athletic practices or competitions.

Youth and student athletes suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury must be immediately removed from athletic activity and cannot return until receiving written clearance from a licensed physician.

Physicians may delegate medical care evaluation to licensed or certified health care providers with established supervisory relationships or written protocols, and may consult with or use testing by licensed neuropsychologists to evaluate cognitive function.

The act takes effect July 1, 2011, and applies to both independent sanctioning authorities and the Florida High School Athletic Association.