California Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) introduced a bill that aims to prevent youth football leagues from prohibiting players from wearing padded helmets add-ons, similar to the ones NFL players wear to mitigate concussions.
In a news release, Valencia’s office highlighted evidence that shows tackle football puts young players at risk for concussions.
“Research conducted by Virginia Tech has demonstrated that soft-shelled helmet add-ons can significantly reduce the forces of impact, leading to a 24.7% decrease in concussion risk. Notably, the NFL has already adopted this technology for its players, highlighting its effectiveness and reliability,” the release said.
Last year, Valencia, who played football at San Jose State, introduced a bill that would have banned tackle football for preteens. However, in a rare move, Gov. Gavin Newsom struck down that proposal.
He believes this proposal, AB 708, which would allow equipment sold under the Guardian Cap brand, is the next best thing.
The Guardian Cap brand has previously spoken out against youth leagues that have prohibited the use of the equipment, citing concerns that the add-on could negate the safety certifications the football helmet already has.
Still, medical groups, along with the National Cheer Safety Foundation and the Fullerton Pop Warner Football and Cheer organization, support the measure.
