STUDENT CONCUSSION BILL SIGNED INTO LAW
Doogan bill will protect athletes from serious brain injuries
JUNEAU – Today the governor signed a bill sponsored by Representative Mike Doogan (D-Anchorage) to protect student athletes from serious brain injuries resulting from multiple concussions.
The bill (HB 15) requires that a student with a suspected concussion be removed from play or practice and not return until cleared by a qualified medical professional. It will prevent potential serious brain injuries that can be caused by multiple concussions.
"This was a difficult session in a lot of ways," Doogan said, "but we did manage to do some good work, and this bill is part of that. It will help keep kids healthy and safe. Other issues got a lot more attention, but I can't think of too many things more important than protecting young people."
The bill was strongly supported by the National Football League, the Alaska Brain Injury Network, the Alaska Schools Activities Association and many others.
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