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H 5046

An Act to protect the lives of student athletes; Freddy’s law

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle Badger and 9 co-sponsors

H 5046 establishes mandatory health and safety standards for Massachusetts student athletes to prevent injuries and deaths, requiring schools to implement specific medical protocols and emergency procedures.

Reporting date extended to Thursday, December 31, 2026
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Bill Summary · H 5046

Legislative bill overview

H 5046, known as "Freddy's Law," is a Massachusetts bill designed to protect student athletes by establishing safety protocols and medical requirements. The bill appears to mandate specific health and safety standards for student athletic programs, likely including provisions for emergency medical response, baseline testing, or return-to-play protocols following injuries.

Why is this important

Student athlete safety has become a significant public health concern, particularly regarding concussions, sudden cardiac events, and heat-related illnesses. Establishing uniform statewide standards could prevent serious injuries and deaths while ensuring all schools—regardless of funding—provide equivalent safety measures for their athletic programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Schools may face substantial expenses for required medical equipment, training, or personnel that could strain already-tight athletic budgets, particularly in under-resourced districts
  • Scope and specificity: Unclear whether the bill mandates specific medical protocols, baseline testing requirements, or emergency equipment; overly prescriptive language could limit school flexibility while vague language may create inconsistent enforcement
  • Medical professional requirements: Proposals requiring athletic trainers, cardiologists, or other specialists on-site may be impractical for smaller schools or rural districts with limited access to healthcare professionals

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

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