In a ground-breaking move, Florida passed the Second Chance Act (Senate Bill 1070), a statewide requirement that all high school athletes undergo an electrocardiogram (EKG) before participating in sports. The law, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis and legislators including Senator Cory Simon and Representative Jason Shoaf, was enacted in June and is named in honor of 18-year-old football star Chance Gainer of Port St. Joe, who tragically collapsed and died from an undiagnosed cardiac condition during a game in September 2024. Unfortunately, his condition had gone undetected by standard physical examinations.
Equillar Gainer, Chance’s mother and a passionate advocate for the new law, said the legislation’s name carries deep meaning: “It’s so fitting – He wore the number 2, his name is Chance, and now we have the Second Chance Act. He would want to help someone else, because so many other kids have lost their lives.”
Recognizing the need to prevent similar losses, Florida lawmakers fast-tracked the bill which mandates all student-athletes in grades 9-12 undergo at least one EKG before participating in any sports activity beginning with the 2026-27 school year. School districts are required to offer EKGs at a cost of $50 or less, though exceptions are allowed if local costs exceed that threshold. Exemptions for religious or medical reasons are also permitted with documentation from a physician. EKGs performed within two years prior to Fall 2026 are also acceptable.
If an abnormality is found, the student is prohibited from participating in tryouts, practice, or competition until the student submits written medical clearance from a qualified medical professional under the guidelines currently being developed by the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA).
Sudden cardiac arrest remains the leading non-traumatic cause of death among young athletes, often striking without warning. Studies indicate that EKGs can detect 60-95% of serious, otherwise asymptomatic heart conditions. In a pilot program conducted in Brevard County, approximately 0.1% of students were found to have potentially life-threatening conditions, reinforcing the value of proactive screening.
Similarly, in June, a non-profit group, Who We Play For, hosted a free EKG screening at Port St. Joe High School, where Chance previously attended, offering athletes an opportunity to receive their tests ahead of the mandate. During this voluntary screening event, a young lady was found to have a heart abnormality, allowing doctors to intervene early and schedule potentially life-saving surgery.
Chance’s mother, Equillar, who was sworn in as a newly elected Gulf County School Board member on November 19, 2024, stated, “As a mom, it hurts that he’s no longer here. The fact that his life wasn’t in vain, that his life will help save someone else’s life, it’s beautiful to me.”
Medical professionals, coaches, and legislators alike have aligned in support of the act. Emergency physician testimonials highlight how EKGs can expose silent, but fatal conditions. Coaches emphasize that this formal requirement bolsters existing safety measures, like heat-illness protocols and AED availability.
School districts are now collaborating with medical providers to implement low-cost screening options. FHSAA is developing comprehensive policies to govern follow-up evaluations, ensuring student-athletes receive timely medical clearance. However, some concerns have already been raised about follow-up care access, especially in areas with limited pediatric cardiology options, and the financial burden of additional testing, if necessary. Thus, it will be essential for school districts to leverage partnerships with healthcare providers and nonprofits to balance affordability with comprehensive follow-up care.
Florida’s adoption of universal cardiac screenings for high school athletes makes it the first state in the nation to do so. The hope is that this law serves as a template for other states wrestling with how to protect student-athletes from hidden cardiac risks. With compelling early outcomes and widespread community backing, Florida’s initiative could mark a shift toward providing more preventive health measures for young athletes.
The Second Chance Act marks a major leap forward in safeguarding Florida’s student-athletes. Rooted in tragedy, this law transforms Chance Gainer’s legacy into a promise of protection for thousands of students by detecting potentially fatal heart conditions early, thus allowing them to safely chase their dreams.
Florida school districts partnering with Neola can be confident their policies comply with F.S. 1002.20 (17)(b), F.S. 1106.20 (2)(c) and F.S. 1006.165 (3) in connection with this new state law. Neola remains committed to providing policy language that has been carefully reviewed for legal accuracy by external counsel. Sections specifically addressing the Second Chance Act are included in Neola policies 2431 – Interscholastic Athletics and 5780 – Student/Parent Rights.
Neola is excited to welcome Gulf District Schools as a new client! We look forward to partnering with the district to provide expert policy guidance, ensure compliance with state regulations, and support their commitment to student success.