New legislation would raise standards of safety training and protocols for youth sports, keeping kids safe.
LANSING, Mich., April 25, 2025 — State Rep. Mai Xiong (D-Warren) introduced the Safe Youth Sports Act this week, taking a historic step for Michigan to better protect kids’ safety. House Bill 4371 outlines and requires all youth sports programs to comply with increased safety standards, such as creating an emergency action plan and severe weather policy, requiring coaches to undergo CPR, AED and concussion training and conducting annual background checks on each adult employed in a designated role. The bill also outlines a grant program to assist sports programs that serve a high percentage of youth athletes from low-income households meet the outlined standards and attain certifications.
“When parents sign up their kids for recreational sports, they deserve to trust and know that their child’s safety — both physically and emotionally — will be looked after,” Xiong said. “This legislation will ensure that all Michigan’s youth sports leagues, no matter their participants’ financial situations, can continue providing kids with enriching experiences in the safest environment possible.”
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services would oversee the administration of training programs to ensure all youth sports programs in the state meet safety standards to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all young athletes. Apart from requiring life-saving training, the bill also outlines standards for coaches to undergo at least one advanced management training course, including on inclusivity, working with young athletes with disabilities or preventing bullying and harassment.
“Youth sports should be a positive experience for every child — these programs have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of every young athlete,” Xiong said. “This legislation promotes the intentional creation of a safe and inclusive recreational experience for all kids. It’s time we raise the bar for safer fields, courts and practices and brighter futures.”
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