Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 18, 2026, as Concussion Awareness Day in the State of New York

2025 Regular Session

Requests the Governor to proclaim Sept 18, 2026 as Concussion Awareness Day to boost statewide education, prevention, and safe return-to-activity practices.

REFERRED TO CALENDAR

Overview

Bill: Assembly Resolution No. 1321 (A. 1321), 2025-2026 Session, New York

Sponsor: Assembly Rules Committee (Santabarbara)

Type: Memorializing resolution

Purpose: Request Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 18, 2026 as Concussion Awareness Day in New York State, in conjunction with National Concussion Awareness Day

Main purpose and intent

The resolution memorializes the Governor to designate a statewide Concussion Awareness Day.

It aligns the New York observance with National Concussion Awareness Day.

The overarching aim is to raise public awareness about concussion risks, recognition, treatment, prevention, and safe return-to-activity protocols.

Key provisions and changes

Formal memorialization: The resolution requests the Governor to proclaim September 18, 2026 as Concussion Awareness Day.

Encouragement to public entities: Urges schools, healthcare providers, athletic organizations, community groups, and residents to enhance education and advocacy related to concussion prevention, recognition, and management.

Focus areas promoted by the resolution:

Awareness of concussion symptoms and the importance of early diagnosis
Proper medical management to reduce risk of further injury
Return-to-activity protocols to promote safe recovery
Prevention strategies for student athletes and youths engaged in sports and recreational activities

Publication and transmission: If enacted, a copy of the engrossed resolution would be sent to Governor Hochul.

Who is affected

Primary beneficiaries: Residents of New York State, with emphasis on:

Student athletes and youth participants in sports and recreational activities
Families and caregivers
Schools, healthcare providers, athletic organizations, and community groups

Indirect effects: Increased public health messaging, potential collaborations among schools, medical providers, and athletic programs to implement concussion education and safety practices.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Status: Referred to Calendar as of May 8, 2026

Nature of action: Non-binding memorialization; does not create new laws or appropriations

Timing: Proclaims a specific day—September 18, 2026—if Governor Hochul issues the proclamation

Next steps: Governor’s office would need to issue a formal proclamation to designate Concussion Awareness Day in New York State

Significance

Compliance with a broader public health objective to reduce concussion-related harm through awareness, early detection, and proper management.

Supports ongoing health and safety initiatives for youth sports and other activities where concussions may occur.

Serves as a symbolic, statewide call to action for education and prevention efforts.