Unanimous vote in Senate sends HB 928 to governor's desk

There was no discussion or debate on House Bill 928 in the Senate on Thursday; instead, a unanimous vote was taken in favor of the proposed law.

The bill, which aims to give physical therapists the legal ability to evaluate student-athletes for concussions, passed the Senate by a 41-0 vote.

Right now, physical therapists are not one of the medical professionals who are legally able to evaluate and clear a middle or high school student-athlete who is exhibiting signs of a concussion. If Gov. Josh Stein signs the bill, they will be granted that ability immediately.

Under current state law, physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, licensed athletic trainers, and neuropsychologists who are trained in concussion management and work under the supervision of a physician are authorized to evaluate concussions.

Student-athletes who have concussion symptoms are required to be cleared by one of the authorized medical professionals before they can return to play or practice.

HB 928 was introduced in April by Rep. Carla D. Cunningham (D-Mecklenburg). It was immediately sponsored by Rep. Celeste C. Cairns (R-Carteret), Rep. Allen Chesser (R-Nash), Rep. Pricey Harrison (D-Guilford), and Rep. Reece Pyrtle (R-Rockingham).

The bill passed the House with broad bipartisan support in May, 100-11.