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Bill

SB 593

Education - Student Athletic Activities - Physical Examinations and Cardiovascular Prescreening

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ben Brooks

Maryland bill requiring all student athletes to complete physical exams and cardiovascular prescreening before participating in sports to prevent sudden cardiac death.

First Reading Education, Energy, and the Environment
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Bill Summary · SB 593

Legislative bill overview

SB 593 requires students participating in athletic activities to undergo physical examinations and cardiovascular prescreening before participation. The bill establishes medical evaluation standards that schools must implement to identify potential health risks in student athletes before they engage in sports.

Why is this important

Sudden cardiac death and undiagnosed cardiovascular conditions are leading causes of death in young athletes. Mandatory prescreening can identify at-risk students before catastrophic events occur, potentially saving lives. This also establishes consistent health standards across Maryland schools that may currently have varying or minimal requirements.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden: Implementation costs for comprehensive cardiovascular screening (ECGs, echocardiograms) could be substantial for schools and families, potentially creating barriers for lower-income students
  • Medical necessity debate: Some argue existing physical exams are sufficient, while others contend advanced cardiac screening is overly cautious for the actual risk level in student populations
  • Access disparities: Schools in under-resourced districts may struggle to provide screening, creating unequal athletic opportunities across socioeconomic lines

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

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