California Assembly passes youth sports safety bills AB 310 and AB 437

California's Assembly has taken significant steps to enhance youth sports safety and support individuals with developmental disabilities during its recent session on March 28, 2025.

One of the standout measures, Assembly Bill 310, introduced by Assemblymember Alanis, aims to save lives by ensuring that youth sports programs are equipped with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). This legislation builds on the previous Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act, addressing the critical need for timely intervention during sudden cardiac arrests, which are the leading cause of death among student athletes. The bill mandates that youth athletic organizations develop written emergency response plans, maintain their AEDs, and provide adequate training for coaches. The Assembly unanimously passed this bill, reflecting a strong bipartisan commitment to safeguarding young athletes.

In addition to youth sports safety, the Assembly also approved Assembly Bill 437, presented by Assemblymember Lackey. This bill requires the California Interscholastic Federation to include data on sports-related injuries in its health and safety reports. This change aims to enhance awareness and understanding of the long-term impacts of injuries, particularly head injuries, on student athletes.

Furthermore, Assembly Concurrent Resolution 55, introduced by Assemblymember Gonzales, commemorates the 40th anniversary of the landmark California Supreme Court decision in ARC vs. the Department of Developmental Services. This resolution honors the Lanterman Act, which guarantees individuals with developmental disabilities access to essential services. Gonzales shared a personal connection to the issue, emphasizing the importance of these services for families like his own.

These legislative actions underscore California's ongoing commitment to improving safety in youth sports and ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities receive the support they need. As these measures move forward, they promise to have a lasting impact on the health and well-being of California's youth and vulnerable populations.