House rejects Wilder resolution urging LHSAA to review cheer and dance safety

The Louisiana House debated and ultimately rejected on April 13 a House concurrent resolution by Representative Brett Wilder that urged the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) to examine recognition and safety standards for cheer, dance and related activities.

Wilder said the resolution was prompted by a parent’s account and a recent case in which a student injured during practice did not receive athletic-department protections because cheer or dance were not recognized as sanctioned sports at that school. ‘‘This is just to nudge the LHSAA,’’ Wilder said, framing the measure as a safety-focused request, not a law that would mandate rules.

The floor debate was lengthy. Other members raised concerns about increased regulation and costs for relatively underfunded cheer and dance programs, possible limits on students’ ability to participate in multiple activities, and whether the LHSAA already maintains safety guidance through national organizations. Representative Weibel and Representative Ventrella, among others, asked whether the resolution would inadvertently impose residency and season restrictions or other administrative burdens.

Wilder and supporters said the resolution was not intended to impose new residency or transfer rules and that the principal goal was to spur a conversation about consistent concussion protocols, training and access to athletic trainers. After extensive exchanges, the House recorded a vote; the resolution failed, 49–42.