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Bill

SB 595

An Act amending Title 5 (Athletics and Sports) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in wrestling, further providing for physician to be in attendance.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jay Costa and 3 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania requires physicians to attend wrestling events under strengthened attendance standards to enhance athlete safety and medical emergency response.

Referred to Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure
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Bill Summary · SB 595

Legislative bill overview

SB 595 amends Pennsylvania's athletics and sports law to strengthen requirements regarding physician attendance at wrestling events. The bill modifies existing provisions in Title 5 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes that govern medical supervision during wrestling competitions and related activities.

Why is this important

Wrestling carries inherent injury risks including head trauma, dehydration, and musculoskeletal injuries, making medical oversight critical for athlete safety. Enhanced physician attendance requirements could prevent serious complications, reduce liability exposure for schools and organizations, and establish clearer standards for emergency medical response at all wrestling events.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden: Mandating physician presence at all wrestling events may increase operational expenses for schools and wrestling organizations, particularly in rural or under-resourced districts
  • Definition scope: The bill's language regarding what constitutes a "wrestling" event and which venues require physician attendance remains unclear and could create compliance disputes
  • Implementation timeline: Facilities and organizations may lack sufficient qualified physicians available to meet requirements, especially for practices versus competitions and simultaneous events

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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