“We must be impatient for change. Let us remember that our voice is a precious gift and we must use it.”
-Claudia Flores
Current MA legislation impacting Athletic Training
Your voice is extremely important. When voices come together, they become louder. By pooling financial support from many contributors into the PAC, it will allow the PAC to make contributions to the key legislators that support our causes, attend fundraisers to speak to key stakeholders, educate them on the importance of our profession and what we are attempting to accomplish through our legislative efforts.
Find the current (2023-24) legislation below and their docket numbers linked to more information.
SD.1373/HD.3612
An Act Relative to Athletic Training
Presented by: Senator Barry Finegold (2nd Essex & Middlesex), Representative Edward Coppinger (Norfolk and Suffolk)
SD.1951/HD.2666 aims to update language established in 1983 which no longer accurately represents the practice of athletic training in 2022 and beyond. As with all healthcare professions, the need to stay up to date on best practice is vital to patient care. The educational standards of an athletic trainer have far exceeded the limits of the antiquated language here in the Commonwealth. Athletic trainers remain the only allied healthcare profession whose practice act restricts the specific workplace setting and population for whom athletic trainers can provide care.
SD.1370/HD.2137
An Act relative to student safety in interscholastic athletic activities
Presented by: Senator Paul R. Feeney (Bristol & Norfolk), Representative David Biele (4th Suffolk)
SD.1370/HD.2137 seeks to establish an appropriately licensed and certified athletic trainer, who have completed the annual head injury safety training, employed by the superintendent or the school committee, be present at every high school in the Commonwealth offering interscholastic athletic activities.
SD.603/HD.1136
An Act Promoting Consumer Choice in Health Care
Presented by: Senator Brendan Crighton (3rd Essex) and Representative Daniel Ryan (2nd Suffolk)
SD.1364/HD.2320 will provide insurance coverage for those individuals receiving care from an athletic trainer. Unlike other states, health care services provided by athletic trainers are not reimbursed by MA insurance companies. This discrimination against athletic training limits access to care for most individuals who would benefit from the same athletic training services received by individuals participating in elite college and professional sports.
