Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, representing the Anaheim area, has introduced a proposal to allow soft helmet pads in youth football leagues across California. Valencia, a former San Jose State tight end, had previously supported a proposal to ban tackle football for preteens, citing concerns about the game’s safety for young players’ developing brains. However, Governor Gavin Newsom intervened to halt that proposal.
Valencia’s new measure, Assembly Bill 708, aims to prevent youth leagues from banning the use of Guardian Caps, a type of padded helmet add-on used by some NFL players to reduce concussions. According to CalMatters, Valencia believes the evidence is clear that tackle football poses risks of concussions and long-term brain issues for young players. With a ban off the table while Newsom is in office, Valencia views the use of Guardian Caps as a viable alternative.
The bill responds to some leagues’ concerns that the add-ons might void helmet safety certifications, potentially exposing leagues to lawsuits if players are injured. The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment has stated that attaching products to certified helmets voids their safety certification unless the add-on is tested and certified separately.
Valencia’s proposal has garnered support from fellow former college football players in the Assembly, including Democratic Assemblymember Steve Bennett and Republican Assemblymember David Tangipa. Bennett, who experienced a skull fracture while playing in the 1960s and 1970s, supports efforts to enhance football safety. Tangipa, who previously opposed the tackle football ban, agrees with Valencia’s bill, emphasizing the importance of parental choice in using the add-ons.
The bill has faced no formal opposition and has passed through the Assembly, with expectations of similar success in the Senate. It has received backing from the California Medical Association and other medical organizations, although some studies question the effectiveness of the helmet pads in reducing concussions.
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