Statement from Dr. Roger Dearing,
Executive Director, Florida High School Athletic Association
Regarding House Bill 1403
“Governor Scott made a thoughtful decision in signing House Bill 1403, and the Florida High School Athletic Association will do all we can to help implement this new law for the benefit of student-athletes across our state.
“This legislation grew out of sincere and valid concerns about some specific issues regarding high school athletics in Florida, and we intend to address those concerns in a meaningful way. We recognize that the bill was well-intentioned, and its sponsors truly had the best interests of Florida student-athletes, parents and schools at heart. SEE FULL STATEMENT HERE
WHATS THE IMPACT?
The final bill (HB 1403) going to the Governor includes:
Allow a student who obtains an approved transfer to participate in athletics right away.
Allow school boards to approve transfers among public schools.
Put the burden of proof on high school administrators to prove wrongdoing if they suspect “recruiting” when an athlete transfers.
Regulate investigators and sanction coaches who commit major violations.
Require an expedited appeals process.
Provide requirements for de novo decisions on appeal.
Does not make membership in the FHSAA mandatory for any school.
Require the FHSAA to award membership to any school seeking.
FHSAA may not deny or discourage interscholastic competition between its member schools and non-FHSAA member Florida schools.
FHSAA can not take any discriminatory action against any of its member schools that participate in interscholastic competition with non-FHSAA member Florida schools.
According to the Orlando Sentinel, if the FHSAA decides a student-athlete was recruited or in possible violation of other rules, it can fine the school, sanction coaches or move the program to a higher competitive classification. But the student-athlete may not be declared ineligible for recruiting violations unless they are found to have falsified enrollment or eligibility documents or accepted impermissible benefits. link is http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/highschool/os-hs-fhsaa-eligibility-bill-close-to-law-20120308,0,7290313.story