Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Reduce Head Injuries

Two Ohio lawmakers introduced legislation today to reduce the number of concussions and other brain injuries among young athletes. Columbus Representative Michael Stinzino, a co-sponsor of the measure, says the bill is designed to raise the awareness of young athletes, parents and coaches about the long term effected of repeated brain injuries. Stinziano says it's important for coaches to recognize the symptoms of concussions and to know when to take a player out of the game. He says this is not a helmet law. The National Football League is encouraging states to adopt such legislation in an effort to reduce the long term brain damage that can occur when athletes suffer a series of hits to the head. The Brain Injury Asociation of Ohio also supports the bill. Executive Director Suzanne Minnick says head injuries can have serious consequences for younger athletes. She hopes the measure will raise the awareness of parents and coaches about the symptoms of concussion and the importance of a full recovery.