Electrocardiograms for Student Athletes:
HB 1135 revises Florida’s school athletics laws to require broader cardiac screening for student athletes. Beginning in the 2028-2029 school year, each first-time high school participant in interscholastic athletics must complete at least one electrocardiogram (ECG) that meets statutory requirements, in addition to the existing annual medical evaluation. The bill also directs the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) to adopt rules governing the evaluation process, including use of licensed practitioners, standardized forms, and procedures for referrals and follow-up when an abnormal result is found.
The bill allows out-of-state licensed practitioners in good standing to perform the medical evaluation and ECG, and it requires schools to receive the results before a student may participate. If an ECG is abnormal, the student is barred from tryouts, practice, or competition until written medical clearance is provided by a qualified practitioner trained in ECG diagnosis and management. The bill also includes a religious objection exemption for parents and provides liability protections for schools and other entities relying on the evaluation or clearance documents.
HB 1135 amends sections 1002.20, 1006.20, and 1006.165 of the Florida Statutes. It expands preparticipation health requirements for public high school athletics, adds ECG screening requirements for certain student athletes, authorizes certain out-of-state practitioners to conduct evaluations, and requires the FHSAA to adopt implementing bylaws and policies. It also requires school districts to seek public and private partnerships to provide low-cost ECGs and exempts students from the ECG mandate if their district cannot secure a screening option under $20 per student. The bill creates new participation restrictions for abnormal ECG results and adds liability protections tied to reliance on medical evaluations and clearances.
The overall sentiment appears supportive of stronger student-athlete heart screening and prevention measures, as reflected by the bill’s advancement and the fact that a companion measure passed. The bill’s structure suggests a policy consensus around improving early detection of cardiac conditions in student athletes while phasing in the requirement over time. The lack of recorded committee transcript debate or vote detail limits insight into specific floor or committee sentiment, but the final status indicates the proposal was ultimately carried forward in companion legislation rather than HB 1135 itself.
The main points of contention likely center on cost, implementation, and medical/privacy concerns. Requiring ECGs for first-time high school athletes could impose new administrative and financial burdens on school districts and families, which the bill addresses through partnership requirements and a low-cost exemption. Another likely issue is the scope of the mandate and the potential for false positives or follow-up burdens after abnormal results, which the bill handles by requiring medical clearance before return to play. Religious objections also remain a statutory exception, and the bill’s liability protections suggest concern about school exposure when parents decline screening or when schools rely on medical documentation.