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SB 386

CARE FOR YOUTH ATHLETES WITH BRAIN INJURIES

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Natalie Figueroa

New Mexico bill requiring youth athletes to undergo baseline testing, medical clearance, and graduated return-to-play protocols after concussions to prevent serious brain injury.

action postponed indefinitely
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Bill Summary · SB 386

Legislative bill overview

SB 386 establishes protocols and requirements for managing brain injuries (concussions) in youth athletes across New Mexico. The bill likely mandates baseline testing, graduated return-to-play timelines, and medical clearance procedures for young athletes who have sustained head injuries while competing.

Why is this important

Concussions in youth sports have become a significant public health concern, with research linking repeated head trauma to long-term cognitive and neurological effects. Standardized protocols ensure consistent protective measures across schools and athletic programs, potentially reducing the risk of young athletes returning to play before full recovery—a practice that can compound injury severity.

Potential points of contention

  • Medical resource burden: Schools and smaller athletic programs may lack resources to implement baseline testing, specialized concussion protocols, and medical evaluations, potentially creating financial and administrative challenges
  • Return-to-play liability: Defining "medical clearance" and determining who qualifies to authorize return-to-play creates questions about legal liability if injuries occur post-clearance
  • Variable scientific evidence: While concussion protocols are evidence-based, debate continues about optimal recovery timelines and whether one-size-fits-all protocols adequately account for individual variations in injury severity and recovery

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

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