Representatives Beatty and Wagner Reintroduce Concussion Awareness and Education Act

Statement

Recently, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) and Congresswoman Ann Wagner (MO-02) reintroduced bipartisan legislation, The Concussion Awareness and Education Act, H.R. 2360, a bill to improve awareness, education and research on concussion and concussion-like injuries.

According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 3.5 million concussions occur each year. Even more startling is the fact that one in five high school athletes will sustain a sports concussion during the season--which has far-reaching implications and increases the risk of sustaining another concussion later in life. Yet, there is no comprehensive system for acquiring data on the incidence of sports- and recreation-related concussions across all age groups in sports nor is there any published data on the incidence of reported concussions during basic training for military recruits.

"The Concussion Awareness and Education Act is all about protecting and treating our nation's student athletes and servicemembers living with concussive injuries," Beatty said. "We can and must do more in coordinating research, treatment, education and awareness about concussions by bringing all stakeholders, coaches, parents, researchers and policymakers to the table." Beatty continued, "I thank my good friend, Congresswoman Wagner, for working in a bipartisan fashion with me on this important matter."

"As we learn more about concussions and their long-term impact on athletes of all ages, it becomes equally clear that more answers and research are needed," Wagner said. "This bill is a great first step to gather that research and develop a comprehensive system that can best treat and prevent concussions from occurring." Wagner concluded, "I am proud to join my friend Congresswoman Beatty in this important effort and applaud her leadership on this issue."

H.R. 2360 would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), in coordination with the Secretary of Defense when applicable, to conduct systemic research on the treatment, surveillance and prevention of concussion injuries. In addition, the bill would establish the Concussion Research Commission to spearhead identifying and formulating recommendations to address concussion research, surveillance, education, treatment and prevention. The Concussion Awareness and Education Act is cosponsored by 20 Members of Congress and is awaiting further consideration in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

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