FLORIDA – As high school athletes gear up for the upcoming sports season, a new Florida law intends to prioritize their safety beyond the standard requirements around the country.
Senate Bill 1070, also known as the “Second Chance Act,” requires at least one electrocardiogram, also known as an “EKG,” in addition to the already required physical for any Florida student attempting to participate in high school sports.
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If the EKG reveals something that requires further medical attention, the student-athlete will be unable to partake in whichever sport they’re attempting to play until they are cleared by a specialist.
Florida is set to become the first state to require EKGs for student-athletes.
The bill was inspired by Chance Gainer, a Florida football player at Port St. Joe High School who suffered sudden cardiac arrest on the field and died in September 2024. In response, school districts will also seek low-cost EKG options for students.
“The Second Chance Act is a wonderful way to catch underlying cardiac conditions. And we’re going to catch underlying cardiac conditions that are there for the long haul,” said Julie Bredt, founder and provider at Bluebird Pediatrics in St. Augustine.
She added that many parents and athletes tend to wait until the last minute to get their sports physicals, but emphasized that getting it done earlier can save time and potentially protect an athlete’s future.
“Something comes up during that checkup — sometimes they miss out on that season,” she said.
Bredt also highlighted the importance of parents and coaches being mindful of athletes’ mental and physical limits.
“Normalize checking in, not just [saying], ‘Hey, how is your pitching arm? And how does your back feel after swimming so far during practice today, or running so far in soccer? But how are YOU doing?” she said.
Finally, she stressed creating a safe space for kids to share their thoughts and feelings.
“Kids may not feel so comfortable opening up. If you normalize checking in with them regularly, that’s something that’s going to be so much more valuable,” Bredt said.
The rule will take effect for the 2026-2027 school year, but EKGs conducted within the previous two years will count toward the requirement.