Neuroscience For Kids

Alabama Concussion Law Signed
July 13, 2011

Last month, with the signature of Governor Robert Bentley, Alabama joined several other states by passing a law to prevent brain injuries in young athletes. The new law requires parents and coaches to learn about the dangers of concussions and prevents young athletes who might have a concussion from playing sports until they have been cleared by doctors.

Specifically, the law requires that:

• Sport or recreational organizations develop guidelines, information and forms to educate young athletes and their parents about the dangers of concussions and brain injury.
• Each year, a concussion and head injury information sheet must be signed and returned by the young athlete and the athlete's parent or guardian before the athlete can practice or compete.
• Sport or recreational organizations make sure coaches have annual training to learn how to recognize the symptoms of a concussion and how to seek proper medical treatment for a person who might have a concussion.
• A young athlete who is suspected of having a concussion or brain injury in practice or game will be removed from participation immediately. The athlete may not return to play until he or she is examined by a licensed physician and receives written clearance from a physician to return to action.

For more information about concussions, see:

1. House Bill 108
2. Knowledge about Concussions - Neuroscience for Kids
3. Multiple Concussions - Neuroscience for Kids
4. Survey Tackles Football Concussions - Neuroscience for Kids

Copyright © 1996-2011, Eric H. Chudler, University of Washington