Trumbull State Rep. Rutigliano's Concussion Act Signed Into Law

Gov. Dannel Malloy signed a new act into law this week that changes the rules for how concussions are dealt with for school athletes.

The act, An Act Concerning Youth Athletics and Concussions was co-authored by State Rep. Dave Rutigliano (R-123), whose district covers Trumbull. State Rep. Tony Hwang (R-134) also attended the signing ceremony.

The new law requires state coaches to attend training and refresher courses regarding concussion awareness. Coaches must immediately remove students from activities if they exhibit symptoms of concussion and can’t allow them to rejoin activities until written clearance is received from a doctor.

Incidents of concussion must be reported to the State Board of Education. The board will be required to submit an annual report every year regarding concussions.

“The seriousness of this issue deserved more attention. We need to do everything we can to help our children,” Rutigliano said in a release. “This law helps to create common sense guidelines and resources for parents, teachers and coaches, to educate all on the seriousness of brain injuries.”

Photo submitted by State House Republicans.