Virginia Concussion Law – Little League

Virginia law regarding concussions is found in Sections 22.1-271.5 and 22.1-271.6 of the Virginia Code (Va. Code Ann. §22.1-271.5 and §22.1-271.6).

Key Requirements for Student-Athletes:

• The Board of Education develops and distributes concussion guidelines to each school division.

• Each school division must create policies for handling suspected concussions.

• Participation requirement:

  • Student-athletes and their parent/guardian must review concussion information annually and sign an acknowledgement form.

• If a student-athlete is suspected of having a concussion:

  • They must be immediately removed from play.

  • They cannot return the same day.

  • Return is only allowed after evaluation by a licensed health care provider and written clearance.

Non-Interscholastic Youth Sports Programs (like Little League):

• Defined as programs for youth competition or recreational athletic instruction.

• Programs using public school property must follow either:

  • The school’s concussion policies, or

  • The Board of Education guidelines.

Return to Learn Protocol:

• School personnel should watch for cognitive or academic issues after a concussion.

• Gradually accommodate the student’s return to full academic participation.

Resources & References:

• Sections 22.1-271.5 and 22.1-271.6 (Title 22.1, Chapter 14) – view online

• VHSL – Concussions

• Virginia Department of Education

• VHSL – Sports Medicine/Concussions