Effective April 26, 2013, any individual applying for a first-time pupil-activity program permit or permit renewal is required to complete certain training programs related to concussions and head injuries in order to coach interscholastic activities.
Individuals applying for a first-time permit must successfully complete a training program that focuses on brain trauma and brain injury management (RC 3319.303). In addition, individuals applying for a permit renewal must have successfully completed a training program that recognizes the symptoms of concussions and head injuries or a training program that is authorized and required by an organization that regulates interscholastic conferences or events within the preceding three years (RC 3319.303).
Pursuant to RC 3707.52, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is required to provide a link on its website with information regarding training programs that recognize the symptoms of concussions and head injuries. The following free online training programs have been approved by ODH:
- National Federation of State High School Associations Concussion in Sports-What you need to know: http://www.nfhslearn.com/electiveDetail.aspx?courseID=38000.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Heads Up Concussion in Youth Sports On-Line Training Program: http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/online_training.html.
HB 143, which has provisions becoming effective March 26, 2013, and the remaining provisions becoming effective April 26, 2013, has added these requirements to state law.
If you have any questions regarding this information, please feel free to contact the OSBA legal services divisions at (614) 540-4000.