California: Ahead of NFL opening day, Governor Newsom convenes youth football summit to discuss safety and support
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~ As the NFL opening day approaches, Governor Gavin Newsom has taken a proactive step in addressing the safety and support of youth football players. Last week, he hosted a summit on youth football safety with experts, health professionals, parents, and players from various levels of the sport.

The summit provided a platform for participants to share their experiences and perspectives on youth football, including input from healthcare providers, team administrators, parents, and current and former athletes. The feedback gathered from this meeting will inform the administration's next steps in reviewing existing laws and determining if additional protocols are necessary. It also served as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships with industry leaders in order to improve youth sports.

Governor Newsom expressed his belief that it is possible to make youth tackle football safer while also promoting the growth of flag football in California without implementing bans that infringe on parents' rights. He emphasized the importance of working together with subject matter experts and industry leaders to protect young athletes.

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Dr. Mark Ghaly, Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, also highlighted California's leadership in athletics and how actions taken by the state have a ripple effect across the nation. He stressed that when it comes to sports, it is not just about performance but also about safety and supporting athletes of all ages.

In August 2019, Governor Newsom signed AB1, known as the California Youth Football Act. This law established minimum safety standards for youth tackle football leagues, including limiting full-contact tackles, requiring coaches to complete additional safety training, informing parents about health risks and information, and setting equipment standards.

Last year, Governor Newsom made a commitment to work with subject matter experts to evaluate current laws and research related to concussions and head injuries in youth tackle football. He also expressed interest in exploring new practices and technology that can further protect young players.

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In other recent news related to California's efforts towards progress and improvement within the state, Governor Newsom has invited developers to create Generative AI (GenAI) solutions for some of the most challenging issues facing California, such as housing and homelessness. Additionally, California's athletes have been making their mark at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, with Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom cheering them on. And in a move towards accountability, Elk Grove has reached a settlement with the state after unlawfully denying a supportive housing project.

Governor Newsom's commitment to addressing youth football safety and promoting partnerships with industry leaders demonstrates his dedication to protecting young athletes and improving sports in California. With continued efforts and collaboration, it is possible to make youth football safer while also supporting its growth.

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