SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 2607

As of February 22, 2002

Title:  An act relating to physical examinations by health practitioners.

Brief Description:  Requiring physical examinations prior to participation in interscholastic athletic activities.

Sponsors:  Representatives McDermott, Armstrong, Ruderman, Rockefeller, Campbell, Conway, Cody, Pearson, Esser and Kenney.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Education:  2/27/02.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff:  Heather Lewis-Lechner (786-7448)

Background:  Under current Washington law, each school district board of directors is given the authority to control, supervise and regulate the conduct of interschool athletic activities.  The board is also given the authority to delegate their control, supervision and regulation of any such activity to the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) or any other voluntary nonprofit entity.  The WIAA is a voluntary, nonprofit association comprised of member middle level and high schools.  All schools that are members of WIAA agree to abide by the policies established by the WIAA.  The WIAA has policies in place that require physical examinations prior to the first practice for participation in school athletics but there is currently no statutory requirement for such an examination.

Summary of Bill:  A student wishing to participate in middle level or high school interscholastic athletics must undergo a thorough physical examination prior to the first practice and be approved for athletic competition.  The examination must be performed by one of the listed types of health care professionals.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.