WV SB657

Requires all West Virginia middle school and high school football players to use impact-reducing soft-shell helmet covers during school-organized practices, effective July 1, 2026

Directs the Board of Education, in consultation with the Board of Physical Therapy, to promulgate rules governing concussion protocol, education, training, and development of Concussion Education, Prevention, and Response Plans for schools

Establishes the Cohen Craddock Memorial Grant Program to help schools and county boards of education cover costs of procuring required safety equipment, administered by the Department of Education on a first-come-first-serve basis

Creates the Cohen Craddock Memorial Grant Fund as a special revenue fund that does not revert to general revenue at fiscal year end, funded through legislative appropriations, federal money, and private donations

Protects helmet warranties and safety certifications from being voided due to use of soft-shell covers, provided the covers do not modify or damage the helmet and at least one manufacturer has certified the cover as acceptable