In a major blow to advocates seeking a ban on tackle football for children under 12, California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that he will not sign the proposed legislation. The decision effectively ends the hopes of the bill becoming law this year.

Governor Newsom expressed his concerns about the health and safety of young athletes but stated that an outright ban is not the solution. His decision comes after the bill, proposed by Democratic assembly member Kevin McCarty, was sent to the floor of the state assembly for a vote.

The bill aimed to gradually phase out tackle football for children under 12 by 2029. It proposed that children play flag football until the age of 12, thus reducing the risk of brain damage associated with long-term participation in tackle football. However, the proposal faced strong opposition from parents, coaches, and children, who voiced their concerns at a public hearing last week, wearing their football jerseys as a sign of solidarity.

Governor Newsom's refusal to sign the ban means that the chances of the bill becoming law this year are slim. While the California legislature has the power to override a veto, this has not been done in over four decades.

It is worth noting that California has already implemented regulations regarding youth tackle football. In 2021, Governor Newsom signed a law that limited teams to only two full-contact practices per week, each lasting no more than 30 minutes during the regular season. Coaches were also required to undergo training on concussions and other head injuries.

Newsom, who is considered a potential candidate for the presidency beyond 2024, affirmed his commitment to working with lawmakers to strengthen safety in youth football. He emphasized the importance of involving health and sports medicine experts, coaches, parents, and community members to ensure that California maintains the highest standards in the country for youth football safety.

Ron White, president of the California Youth Football Alliance, expressed gratitude to Governor Newsom for his decision. In a video message posted on X (formerly known as Twitter), White mentioned the collective enthusiasm to work with Newsom and the legislative body to create a comprehensive youth tackle football safety measure known as the California Youth Football Act.

While the proposed ban on youth tackle football may not become law this year, the debate surrounding the safety of young athletes and the long-term effects of tackle football continues. This decision by Governor Newsom sheds light on the complex challenge of balancing the interest in preserving a beloved sport with the imperative to protect the well-being of young athletes.