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HB 1213

TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS ATHLETIC TRAINERS ACT; TO CLARIFY THE DEFINITION OF "ATHLETE"; AND TO DEFINE "HEALTHCARE PROVIDER" REGARDING STUDENT ATHLETE CONCUSSION EDUCATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brandon Achor and 4 co-sponsors

Arkansas clarifies which healthcare providers can deliver student-athlete concussion education and refines athlete definitions in athletic trainer regulations.

Notification that HB1213 is now Act 266
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Bill Summary · HB 1213

Legislative bill overview

HB 1213 amends Arkansas's Athletic Trainers Act to clarify the definition of "athlete" and establish what qualifies as a "healthcare provider" specifically for student-athlete concussion education purposes. The bill has been signed into law (Act 266) and refines regulatory language around who can provide concussion safety training and education to student athletes.

Why is this important

Concussion management in youth and student athletics is a significant public health concern, with improper handling potentially leading to serious neurological complications. Clear definitions ensure consistent, evidence-based concussion education standards across Arkansas schools and athletic programs while establishing which qualified professionals can deliver this critical training.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "healthcare provider" definition: The bill's specific definition of which professionals qualify may either expand access to concussion education (if broadly defined) or create barriers if too restrictive, potentially affecting smaller or rural school districts
  • Athletic trainer licensing implications: Changes to "athlete" definition could expand or contract the scope of practice for athletic trainers, affecting their professional authority and liability
  • Enforcement and compliance: Unclear mechanisms for ensuring schools verify provider credentials and monitor compliance with new concussion education standards

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

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