Ohio Senate approves bill on youth concussions

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- A bill aimed at protecting young athletes with concussions or head injuries has cleared the Ohio Senate.

Senators approved the bill Tuesday. It goes back to the House for likely approval of Senate changes.

The measure requires coaches or officials to remove a player from a game or practice if the athlete shows signs of a concussion or is suspected of having one. Athletes would need approval from a doctor to return to play, but they could be treated by other medical professionals.

Coaches and referees would have to be trained in how to recognize symptoms of concussions or head injuries.

State Rep. Michael Stinziano, a co-sponsor, noted lawmakers of both parties backed the measure.

The move comes amid growing awareness of the risks of unaddressed traumatic brain injuries.