Rules to Handle Youth Concussions Nears Law in Pennsylvania

Coaches are likely to get new rules shortly on how they handle concussions sustained by Pennsylvania student athletes.

The state Senate voted unanimously Tuesday in favor of the Safety in Youth Sports Act, which would require coaches to remove students from games if they show signs of a concussion or traumatic brain injury.

A coach also would be prohibited from returning the student to play until the student is evaluated and cleared in writing by a physician or a health care professional who is trained in the evaluation and management of concussions.

Gov. Tom Corbett’s office says he’s inclined to sign it. The bill passed the House unanimously last month.

The bill also calls for better information about concussions for athletes and their parents, as well as training for coaches.