Maryland 2026 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB593

Introduced
2/5/26  

Caption

Education - Student Athletic Activities - Physical Examinations and Cardiovascular Prescreening

Impact

The legislative measure is expected to significantly impact public and nonpublic schools in Maryland by formalizing the requirement of cardiovascular prescreening for students involved in sports activities. The bill extends beyond physical fitness assessments to involve systematic checks that could potentially save lives by early detection of heart issues. Schools will need to implement new guidelines developed in consultation with health authorities, ensuring that both students and their guardians receive necessary education regarding the symptoms and risks associated with sudden cardiac arrest.

Summary

Senate Bill 593 focuses on enhancing the safety of student athletes by mandating cardiovascular prescreening as part of the physical examination required for participation in interscholastic sports. The bill specifies that these screenings must be conducted by qualified health care providers who assess students' heart health and identify any cardiovascular abnormalities before symptoms develop. This initiative aims to prevent instances of sudden cardiac arrest among youth athletes by ensuring that potential health risks are monitored and addressed appropriately prior to athletic participation.

Contention

There may be noticeable contention surrounding the implementation of SB 593 due to varying opinions on the balance of safety and accessibility in youth sports. While proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to safeguard student athletes and could lead to better health outcomes, some may raise concerns regarding the potential financial implications and resource allocation for schools, particularly smaller or underfunded institutions. The requirement for additional screenings and educational programs may place additional burdens on school administrations, necessitating discussions about funding and resource distribution.

Companion Bills

MD HB837

Crossfiled Education - Student Athletic Activities - Cardiovascular Prescreening

Previously Filed As

MD HB1528

Education - Homeschool Students - Extracurricular Activities

MD SB755

Higher Education - Student Financial Assistance - Students in Informal Kinship Care Relationships

MD SB451

Adult Education - High School Diploma by Examination - Requirements and Study

MD HB325

Adult Education - High School Diploma by Examination - Requirements and Study

MD SB439

Higher Education - High Impact Economic Development Activities - Alterations

MD SB350

Primary and Secondary Education - Educator Professional Development - Course on Student Well-Being and Flourishing

MD HB457

Primary and Secondary Education - Educator Professional Development - Course on Student Well-Being and Flourishing

MD HB772

Education - Career Counseling Program for Middle and High School Students - Alterations

MD SB879

Institutions of Higher Education - Dually Enrolled Students - Alterations

MD HB725

Institutions of Higher Education - Dually Enrolled Students - Alterations

Similar Bills

HI SB2348

Relating To Cardiovascular Screening.

HI HB2485

Relating To Cardiovascular Screening.

HI SB2560

Relating To Cardiovascular Screening.

MI HR0018

A resolution to declare February 2025 as American Heart Month and February 5, 2025, as National Wear Red Day in the state of Michigan.

MI HR0237

A resolution to declare February 2026 as American Heart Month and February 6, 2026, as National Wear Red Day in the state of Michigan.

GA HB459

Heart Health for All Act; enact

GA HR619

Minority Health Month; April 2025; encourage cholesterol screening; recognize

MS SB2388

Medicaid; create provisions effecting parity in the prescription of pain medication.