WBRZ - Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE, La. - Two new Louisiana laws aim to protect young athletes from serious injuries that often fail to get the treatment they need.

A law by Sen. Sherri Smith Cheek requires coaches in all sports involving kids 7 and older to complete an annual course in recognizing signs of concussions.

A second measure by Rep. Christopher Roy will address a wider range of injuries for high
school athletes.

The new laws prohibit an injured player from returning to the field before being cleared by a medical provider.

Both also require parents, athletes and sports officials to become educated about the
symptoms and risks of serious injuries.