Florida’s Second Chance Act Aims to Protect Student-Athletes With Heart Screenings
By: Shelia Mader
Florida has passed a new law aimed at improving the safety of high school athletes by identifying hidden heart conditions before they become life-threatening. Known as the Second Chance Act, Senate Bill 1070 requires nearly all students who want to compete in school sports to have a heart screening called an electrocardiogram, or EKG, before they step onto the field or court.
The law takes effect with the 2026-27 school year and makes Florida the first state in the nation to require this kind of screening for student-athletes. It was inspired by the death of a talented young athlete, Chance Gainer, who collapsed on the field from an undiagnosed heart condition. Supporters of the bill say that standard physicals alone often miss subtle but dangerous cardiac issues that an EKG can detect.
Under the act, incoming high school athletes in grades 9 through 12 must complete at least one EKG before participating in any interscholastic competition. EKGs done within the two years before the start of the 2026 school year will count toward the requirement, so families can get screenings early.
If an EKG shows an irregularity, the student won’t be able to compete until a doctor provides written medical clearance. The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) is developing the specific forms and guidelines schools will use to record screening results and clearances.
The law also encourages schools to offer low-cost EKG options, with a goal of charging no more than $50 per screening. If a district cannot provide affordable testing, families may opt out of the requirement. Religious and medically documented exemptions are also available.
For parents and student-athletes, this means planning ahead. Scheduling an EKG early, through a doctor or community screening event, can help avoid last-minute issues when the season starts. Many health professionals and advocacy groups have been hosting free or low-cost screenings to help families meet the new requirement, and doctors stress the importance of not skipping this step.
While the idea of an extra test may feel like a burden at first, proponents say the potential to catch serious heart conditions early is well worth it. Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in young athletes, and many conditions linked to it show no obvious symptoms until it’s too late. The Second Chance Act aims to give families and coaches a better chance of spotting trouble before tragedy strikes.
Parents should talk with their child’s school or athletic trainer about how and when to complete the screening. Checking with your family healthcare provider early can also help ensure your athlete is cleared to compete without unnecessary delays.
