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State of Maryland passes bill concerning student-athlete safety, well-being
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The State of Maryland has passed a new bill that will make it easier for student-athletes to voice their concerns to a school administrator in the future, according to a report.
Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed House Bill 876, “Policy on Student Concerns About Athletic Programs and Activities” on Tuesday. The bill was brought to the table following the tragic death of former Maryland Terrapins football player Jordan McNair in 2018.
“This legislation makes it easier for student athletes to voice their concerns directly to an athletic director and receive anonymity to protect against retribution from coaches and staff. This is in direct response to the problems surrounding the University of Maryland football program last year.”
Under head coach DJ Durkin, Maryland’s football program allegedly had a “toxic culture” in which players were bullied by coaches frequently. The atmosphere and environment of the program is something that came under severe scrutiny following McNair’s death.
This new bill, however, aims to make it easier for student-athletes to come forward with concerns without the fear of punishment or disregard.
Following an investigation into the program, Durkin was fired by the University of Maryland.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB