Who We Play For

Today, I signed the bipartisan bill SB25-191 Cardiac Emergency Plans for School Sports to ensure that schools and athletic facilities are safe places for children to practice and compete. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are proven to save lives in the case of a cardiovascular emergency, and with this bipartisan bill, we are expanding access to AEDs to ensure that school sports are maximizing safety. Every parent and legal guardian wants to feel assured that their child will be safe when they are at school and engaging in the activities they love. I want to thank the sponsors of this bill for their leadership on such an important issue, including Senators Roberts and Jodeh, Representatives Lukens and Gilchrist.

I’m so sorry to hear this and my condolences to Ben’s family-I can’t imagine what they’re going through. It’s time we find answers to these existing cardiovascular issues and an EKG isn’t getting it done. Would love to partner with others to mandate that intercollegiate physicals include echocardiograms. My son was diagnosed at 20 years old with cardiomyopathy (enlarged left ventricle). Was severe enough that a heart replacement was talked about if his heart didn’t improve. Thankfully it has improved since the spring of 2023. Too many young people are asymptomatic and unaware of any issues that exist. A mandated Echo could help save lives. It’s time for the NCAA and Conference Commissioners to take a look at this. Love to be involved.