Yang Rohr Champions Student-Athlete Mental Health with New Bill

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – Underscoring her commitment to the mental health and wellness of Illinois kids, state Rep. Janet Yang Rohr, D-Naperville, introduced legislation to limit excessive practice for student-athletes. 

“As state representative, I strive to bring student-led issues to Springfield, because our kids are our future,” Yang Rohr said. “I heard from many students in my community that their sport was taking up more and more of their time outside the classroom, and their grades and physical and mental health suffered as a result. Student-athletes need space for more than just school, sports, and sleep, so I’m introducing this legislation to align local practices with nationwide standards.” 

Yang Rohr’s House Bill 5406 limits the maximum hours a high school team practices to no more than four hours per day during the school year. These limits match those of the  National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) as well as those passed by the California Athletics Association standards regulating student-athlete competition and practice standards. If passed, the legislation will go into effect by the 2024-2025 school year.

Yang Rohr sits on multiple committees that address the needs of students and their families. She has advanced legislation through the Elementary & Secondary Education: School Curriculum & Policies and Appropriations committees. 

During the last legislative session, Yang Rohr passed House Bill 1378, which creates financial aid opportunities for students pursuing in-demand careers. She also created comprehensive education on the dangers of fentanyl through House Bill 3924. 

“Our children’s long term well being depends on balancing school, extracurriculars and just being a kid,” Yang Rohr said. “We as state leaders should look to our students and listen to their voices when it comes to helping them excel and fulfill their potential.” 

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