Hillsborough County Public Schools Parents and Guardians,
We want to make you aware of a new state requirement that will impact some high school athletes beginning with the 2026-2027 school year.
Under Florida Statute 1006.20, known as the Second Chance Act, and effective July 1, 2026, students who are participating in Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) athletics for the first time must have a cleared Electrocardiogram (ECG) before they can participate.
This requirement applies to:
Rising 9th grade students who plan to participate in an FHSAA athletic program in high school
Students in grades 10–12 who plan to participate in FHSAA athletics and have not previously played a high school sport
This requirement does not apply to:
Students participating in Band, Chorus, Orchestra, Color Guard, or ROTC
Middle school athletes
An ECG completed within two (2) years prior to July 1 of the participation year will satisfy this requirement. Students who have cardiac symptoms should consult with their healthcare provider. If an ECG requires additional evaluation, the student must be cleared by a licensed medical practitioner trained in the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of ECGs before participating in any FHSAA athletic competition, practice, tryouts, or workouts.
Hillsborough County Public Schools has partnered with local healthcare providers to offer regional ECG screening opportunities for students. Click on the link below for free or low-cost opportunities to schedule an ECG.
Thank you for your attention to this important update and for your continued support of student health and safety.
Hillsborough County Public Schools