NewsNBC 6 South Florida (WTVJ) – Local NewsJuly 1, 2026Miami-Dade
New Florida Law Requires Heart Screenings for High School Athletes
A new Florida law mandates that all high school student athletes undergo a one-time electrocardiogram (EKG) screening before participating in sports. This requirement follows a push for preventative heart health initiatives after several cases of undiagnosed cardiac conditions in young athletes.
Read the full story at NBC 6 South Florida (WTVJ) – Local NewsWhy It Matters
Starting in the 2025 school year, all Florida high school student athletes must complete a one-time EKG screening to be eligible for sports participation.
Key Facts
- The Second Chance Act, passed in 2025, mandates a one-time EKG screening for all Florida high school student athletes.
- The screening requirement takes effect starting in the 2025 school year.
- Approximately one in 100 children are born with a heart condition.
- The EKG screening process involves attaching electrodes to the body and takes a few minutes to complete.
- Nicklaus Children’s Hospital currently provides free heart screenings at its locations.
Who's Mentioned
personSusana Peñaranda“Mother of Jamie Merilus and advocate for heart screening initiatives.”personDr. Danyal Khan“Pediatric cardiologist at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.”personLucas Osuna“A student athlete who died from an undiagnosed heart condition.”organizationNicklaus Children’s Hospital“Partner in the City of Miami heart screening initiative.”personJamie Merilus“A student whose undiagnosed heart condition was discovered through a preventativ”