FL S0256

Requires independent sanctioning authorities and the Florida High School Athletic Association to adopt guidelines educating coaches, officials, administrators, athletes, and parents about concussion and head injury risks.

Mandates annual parental informed consent forms explaining concussion and head injury risks, including risks of continuing play after injury, before youth and student athletes participate in practices, competitions, or tryouts.

Requires immediate removal of any athlete suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury, with written medical clearance from a trained health care practitioner required before returning to activity.

Establishes a Sports Medicine Advisory Committee within the Florida High School Athletic Association composed of 8 physicians, 1 chiropractor, 1 podiatrist, 1 dentist, 3 athletic trainers, and 1 high school head coach to define concussion training standards.

Effective date is July 1, 2012.