Public Schools and Youth Sports Programs - Concussion Protocol - Alterations

HB 961 requires Maryland public schools and youth sports programs (for participants under 19) to implement updated concussion protocols. It mandates the State Department of Education to develop awareness programs for athletic officials, coaches, school staff, and parents about concussion risks and removal/return-to-play criteria. The bill requires students and parents to sign acknowledgment forms after receiving concussion information, and prohibits restricting the authority of athletic officials, coaches, school staff, or parents to immediately remove a student from play if a concussion is suspected. Students must obtain written clearance from a concussion-trained health provider before returning to play.