Sport Concussion

Senate Bill 1 Ammended

Dear New Mexico Athletic Trainers,

On Tuesday there was a meeting with the NMAA and the Brain Advisory committee.
During this meeting, the actions of the SB 1 were discussed. Some important items:

1. Physicals will now have a statement on concussions, with a signature portion
   Concussions:
   A concussion is a disturbance in the function of the brain caused by a blow to the body or head, occurring in any sport or activity. It results in a variety of symptoms (headache, nausia, dizziness, memory or balance problems) with or without loss of consciousness. I (we) understand that there is a concussion protocol established by the school that includes care and return to play and will report and follow the guidelines set for return to play if such an injury occurs.
   We the student-athlete and parent or court appointed guardian acknowledge and agree that we have read, understand, and will abide by the above stated conditions.
2. A parent, athlete letter was discussed
3. Return to Play was discussed
4. A CEU component will be added for ATC’s on line or in video format (2 ceu’s)
5. Information will be given to all AD’s in NM schools concerning the SB 1

The most important issue is that the Govenor Has Signed SB 1 into law, this occurred two hours after the meeting took place. NMATA fully supports this and will provide information on the statement and papers for any one on our web site. Thank you to Rob Evers, Rich Gerrells, Keith Gardner and all those involved with the Brain Advisory counsel, and through the combined efforts of the NMAA for ensuring the safety of our youth.

Thank you;
Timothy Acklin ATC,LAT