HARRISBURG--Proponents of legislation that would address sudden cardiac arrest in school athletes took their message to the Capitol on Valentine’s Day. The goal of their legislative proposal is to educate and prevent the number one killer of youth athletes.
HB1610 unanimously passed the State House of Representatives. Now, supporters are lobbying state senators to approve the bill that would require training about the warning signs, diagnosis and treatment options.
Coaches, athletic trainers, sports officials and even referees would be required to take on-line training about the conditions requiring players to be removed from the playing fields if they show symptoms. It would also require medical clearance before the athlete can return to the field.
Representative Mike Vereb, prime sponsor of the bill, says the class will be available on-line at the State Health Department website. Prevention and education are vital.
Although the future of the bill in the Senate is uncertain, supporters are optimistic of its eventual passage. The Governor’s Office said Gov. Corbett will sign the legislation if it reaches his desk.