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City Passes Tougher Rules On Student Athlete Concussions

CHICAGO (WBBM) -- Athletes playing for Chicago schools who show signs of a concussion will be prohibited from practicing or playing until they are given the OK by a medical professional, under a new ordinance passed by the City Council on Thursday.

The rule would apply to both public and private schools. Schools that don't comply would get billed for water and sewer services, which are currently free.

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While that's the punishment, the real point behind the law is to keep kids safe.

"The most important part of this I believe is public education," said Ald. Ed Burke.

Burke said parents need to know that "putting their kid back in the game as quickly as possible after a head injury is a recipe for disaster."

Currently, CPS requires that athletes be removed from the field if they show signs of headache, dizziness or loss of memory.

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