California Governor Gavin Newsom has come out against a bill currently making its way through the California State Legislature that would ban organized tackle football in the state for players 12 and under.
“I am deeply concerned about the health and safety of our young athletes, but an outright ban is not the answer,” Newsom said. “My administration will work with the Legislature and the bill’s author to strengthen safety in youth football — while ensuring parents have the freedom to decide which sports are most appropriate for their children.”
The legislation, California Assembly Bill 734, is authored by Assemblyman Kevin McCarty and was introduced in February 2023. It would modify existing state law that, starting in the calendar year 2026, outlaws participation of youth six or younger in league-organized tackle football. AB734 would move this date to 2025, further…
