Florida has enacted the Second Chance Act, a new law requiring electrocardiogram (EKG) screenings for student-athletes to detect potential cardiac conditions before they participate in sports. The legislation, which took effect in the 2024 academic year, mandates that all young athletes in grades K-12 undergo a baseline EKG before engaging in any competitive sports. This measure is designed to identify underlying heart conditions that could lead to sudden cardiac events during physical activity.
Interventional cardiologist Dr. Craig Basman, MD, has explained the medical rationale for the mandate. He emphasized that approximately 1 in 500 young athletes may have a heart condition that could result in sudden cardiac arrest, and early detection through EKG screening can significantly reduce the risk. Basman also addressed the financial implications of implementing the program, noting that while the cost of individual screenings is relatively low, the overall expense for schools and athletic programs remains a consideration. He stressed that the benefits of increased safety for student-athletes outweigh the costs.