Governor Hochul signed legislation into law, cosponsored by Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-C Marcy), to establish licensing requirements for athletic trainers (A219). As a result of this legislation, athletic trainers will become required to report suspected cases of child abuse.

“New York State's Athletic Training Practice Act is outdated due to the profession's evolution in the last 30 years. While the bill does create a licensure requirement which will improve the quality of treatment from athletic trainers, it will most importantly add athletic trainers to the list of officials required to report suspected cases of child abuse or maltreatment,” explained Assemblywoman Buttenschon.

Under the previous law, the only requirements to become an athletic trainer were to complete a university-accredited program and pass a national exam. By obtaining a license, the New York State Department of Education can ensure that qualified athletic trainers operate within the state. The bill will also add athletic trainers to the list of officials who are required to report suspected cases of child abuse to the state.

Care is without a doubt a priority and it is important to uphold the duties as mandated reporters. In order to make change, we must take steps to reduce the existing barriers.