California Gov. Gavin Newsom says he won't sign a proposed ban on tackle football for kids under 12

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California will not ban tackle football for children under 12 after Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom publicly promised he would not sign the bill if it were to reach his desk, blocking a proposal that had become a proxy for parental rights in a presidential election year.

“I will not sign legislation that bans youth tackle football,” Newsom said in a statement late Tuesday. “I am deeply concerned about the health and safety of our young athletes, but an outright ban is not the answer.”

It’s rare for Newsom, a father of four now in his second term, to publicly weigh in on legislation before it reaches his desk. But his decision to quash the proposed ban on youth tackle football before it even got a vote in the Legislature could save him from questions on the campaign trail this year as he acts as a surrogate for President Joe Biden’s reelection.

Beyond 2024, Newsom’s decision could help his own national political ambitions as he would need the support of voters across the country where football carries significant cultural and social importance.

https://apnews.com/article/california-youth-tackle-football-governor-gavin-newsom-f3dfe0afb3e2ab809a1565d2c1a4d777

From the link, FYI:

• The bill prompted strong opposition. Many parents and coaches attended a public hearing in the California Capitol last week wearing their football jerseys while asking lawmakers not to pass the bill.

• The number of teenagers playing high school football in California dropped by 18% from 2015 to 2022 before a small increase in 2023

• Newsome: "... We will consult with health and sports medicine experts, coaches, parents, and community members to ensure California maintains the highest standards in the country for youth football safety."

• Newsom signed a law that took effect in 2021 limiting teams to just two full-contact practices per week of not more than 30 minutes each during season play.

• The 2021 law also requires youth tackle football coaches be trained on concussions and other head injuries.

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I wouldn't allow my kid to play tackle football. The onset of CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) has been found in some teenagers that play.