California's far-left Democratic governor has publicly vowed to veto a bill banning tackle football for kids, just as the bill is being considered in the state legislature.
Despite failing several times in the past, the bill, reintroduced this year by Democratic Rep. Kevin McCarty, passed out of committee and is now ready for a floor vote.
But Newsom publicly be against Fox News reported.
“I will not sign any bill that bans youth tackle football,” Newsom said Tuesday. “I am deeply concerned about the health and safety of our young athletes, but a complete suspension is not the answer.”
“We will continue to consult with health and sports medicine experts, coaches, parents, and community members to ensure California maintains the highest standards in the nation for youth soccer safety,” Newsom added. “We owe a lot to California’s many families who embrace youth sports.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom speaks during a press conference at the California Department of Justice on September 18, 2019 in Sacramento, California. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Democrats have a supermajority in California's legislature, which allows them to override the governor's office. If they want. Still, Democratic governors do not have veto power. Fox pointed out that this provision has been overwritten in 40 years. So if that record holds, the proposed ban will likely die again.
The bill would ban tackle football for children under the age of 12, arguing that tackle football is dangerous to children.
Supporters of banning tackle football argue that the risk of concussions in children is too high to allow the game to take place.
But youth tackle football has been in decline for years in California, down more than 18 percent compared to the 2015 playing population.
Youth peewee football players take to the field during a pregame exhibition before the Arizona Cardinals vs. San Diego Chargers game at Qualcomm Stadium on Sunday, Dec. 31, 2006 in San Diego, California. (Photo provided by Kirby Lee/NFL Photo Library)
In 2015, 103,725 youth played tackle football, but by 2022, that number had dropped to 84,626, according to a California Interscholastic Federation participation survey. In 2023, there was a slight increase in new players, and the number of participants increased to 89,178.
Newsom supported a 2021 bill that would limit full-contact youth football practices to two times a week and 30 minutes per practice. Coaches are also now required to undergo training on the signs of concussion.
This week, Newsom reiterated his support for a focus on safety in sports.
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