Scott Walker signed legislation into law aimed at protecting children from injuries stemming from concussions

Madison—At Lambeau Field in Green Bay today, Governor Scott Walker signed bipartisan legislation into law that is aimed at protecting children from critical injuries stemming from multiple concussions. Assembly Bill (AB) 259 affects athletes under the age of 19 that are involved in organized sports. Under the new law, players that suffer a possible concussion are not allowed to return to play until they are cleared by a health care professional trained in concussion evaluation and management.

“We often hear about the effects of concussions on pro-athletes, like those that play here at Lambeau Field,” Governor Walker said. “And the reality is that it takes even longer for younger athletes to recover from this type of brain injury. If they suffer a second or third concussion before they have had time to heal properly the damages can be irreparable. The goal of this bill is to greatly lessen the risk of long-term injury or death.”

AB 259 has been dubbed the Sidelined for Safety Act, which also promotes education by requiring coaches and parents of athletes to read and sign information about the dangers of concussions.

With this bill, Wisconsin becomes the 32nd state to have a Sidelined for Safety law.

Packer President Mark Murphy and Former Packer Mark Tauscher joined Governor Walker in speaking in support of the new law. Governor Walker thanked Sen. Alberta Darling (R-River Hills) and Rep. Jason Fields (D-Milwaukee) for their work on the legislation, who were also in attendance.

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TEXT and IMAGE CREDIT: Office of the Governor Scott Walker Mail, Office of Governor Scott Walker 115 East Capitol Madison, WI 53702 Phone (608) 266-1212 Email: govgeneral@wisconsin.gov

Governor Scott Walker received endorsements from the Milwaukee Police Association and the Milwaukee Professional Firefighters Association today

Scott Walker wife and family

Madison, Wis. – Governor Scott Walker received endorsements from the Milwaukee Police Association and the Milwaukee Professional Firefighters Association today in the upcoming recall election. “Governor Walker has a strong record of supporting public safety with an unwavering commitment to first responders,” said Michael Crivello, president of the Milwaukee Police Association. “Today, we are proud to announce our support for Governor Walker’s reelection.” Dave Seager, president of the Milwaukee Professional Firefighters Association also proudly expressed support for Governor Walker saying, “Throughout his service in the State Assembly, as Milwaukee County executive, and now as governor, Governor Walker has always supported public safety and protected the needs of first responders.

There is no greater advocate for public safety than Governor Walker.”

Responding to the endorsement, Governor Walker reinforced his commitment to Milwaukee’s first responders:

“I am honored to have the endorsement of courageous men and women who put their lives on the line every single day to protect the citizens of Milwaukee. I will continue to support the needs of not just these selfless individuals, but first responders all across the state in every way to ensure a safer Wisconsin for all citizens.”

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TEXT CREDIT: Friends of Scott Walker PO Box 620437 Middleton, WI 53562

IMAGE CREDIT: Office of the Governor Scott Walker