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A 4983

Requires certain athletic trainers and certain coaches of interscholastic sports, cheerleading and dance programs, and collegiate sports to complete student-athlete eating disorder training program developed by Commissioner of Education.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rosy Bagolie and 4 co-sponsors

New Jersey requires athletic trainers and coaches to complete eating disorder training to identify at-risk student-athletes and enable early intervention in school sports programs.

Received in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee
#highered #schboards #sports
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Bill Summary · A 4983

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 4983 mandates that athletic trainers and coaches working in interscholastic sports, cheerleading, dance programs, and collegiate athletics in New Jersey complete a state-developed training program focused on identifying and responding to student-athlete eating disorders. The Commissioner of Education would develop and oversee this standardized training curriculum.

Why is this important

Eating disorders among student-athletes are a documented public health concern, with athletes in certain sports (gymnastics, wrestling, cross country, cheerleading) showing elevated prevalence rates. Early identification and intervention by coaches and trainers—who interact with athletes daily—can improve outcomes and prevent serious health complications. This creates a systematic approach to detection and response rather than relying on inconsistent individual awareness.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and burden: Schools and athletic programs must allocate resources for staff training completion, potential substitute coverage, and program administration without clear state funding mechanisms specified in the bill
  • Scope and enforcement: Ambiguity about which coaches/trainers are "certain" versus all, how compliance is monitored, and what penalties apply for non-completion
  • Training effectiveness and liability: Unclear whether the training creates legal expectations for intervention that could expose coaches/trainers to liability if they miss cases, or conversely, whether it adequately prepares non-medical personnel to handle complex eating disorders

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

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