A new law will help protect Illinois’ student athletes from concussions and other brain injuries.
Governor Pat Quinn signed the bill into law today at Chicago’s Soldier Field. It ensures that athletes who receive a concussion will not be allowed to return to play or practice until they are evaluated and receive written permission from a licensed health professional. The law also requires student athletes, their parents and coaches to recognize signs of a concussion. The legislation was sponsored in the Illinois House by Minority Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego).
“We are hopeful that this new law will raise awareness for our youth in Illinois when it comes to these devastating and sometimes fatal head injuries,” Cross said.
Under the new law, school boards must partner with the IHSA to develop clear guidelines and materials to educate coaches, student athletes and parents about concussions. Park districts are encouraged to educate about the dangers of concussions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention research indicates that sports are the second leading cause of brain injury in young adults from 15-24 years of age and more than 40 percent of high school athletes returned to play before fully recovering from a concussion.
Quinn, Cross, State Sen. Kwame Raoul (D-Chicago), and Kurt Becker, a member of the championship 1985 Bears team, were on hand for the bill signing. Becker was a strong supporter of the legislation and testified before a House committee on the effects of concussions and other head injuries that can last a lifetime.
