Assemblymember Wallis’ student-athlete heat safety bill heading to the governor’s desk

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KESQ) – Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-Bermuda Dunes) announced Monday that his student-athlete heat safety bill passed the Senate and is heading to the Governor's desk.

AB 2503 requires the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) to annually review its heat illness prevention guidelines to better account for the unique conditions faced by student-athletes in desert communities like the Coachella Valley and other inland regions, Wallis' office wrote.

Under the current guidelines, outdoor practices and competitions must be stopped when the WBGT reaches 92 degrees until conditions cool. While the guidelines are designed to protect student-athletes from heat illness, some local coaches and school officials say the rules can also create significant challenges.

News Channel 3's Sports Director Blake Arthur took an in-depth look at the bill and the issue

Wallis' office said the bill was developed in direct response to conversations with community members who shared concerns about the challenges of scheduling practices and competitions during periods of extreme heat.

“This is a big win for our student-athletes and their families, who deserve common-sense protections that reflect the realities of competing in our desert climate,” said Assemblymember Wallis. “Thank you to the athletic directors, coaches, and parents who advocated tirelessly for our student-athletes and helped get AB 2503 to the Governor’s desk.”

AB 2503 is awaiting the Governor’s decision.