CAL.Regulation
California requires youth football leagues to allow soft-shell helmet add-ons
Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 708, the California Youth Football Act safety-equipment amendment, on September 28, 2026, adding Section 124241.2 to the Health and Safety Code. Youth tackle-football leagues, organizations and coaches must allow participants to use safety equipment including soft-shell helmet add-ons. Courts may grant injunctive relief for violations, and a prevailing plaintiff who obtains relief is entitled to reasonable attorney's fees and costs. The law takes effect January 1, 2027.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Office of the Governor
Key points
- Youth tackle football leagues, organizations that run tackle programs, and their coaches must allow players to use soft-shell helmet add-ons.California Legislative Information
- Courts may grant injunctive relief for a violation or threatened violation of the requirement.California Legislative Information
- A prevailing plaintiff who obtains injunctive relief is entitled to reasonable attorney fees and costs.California Legislative Information
- For helmets put into play on or after January 1, 2027, a warranty or certification may not be voided over a soft-shell add-on, with exceptions.California Legislative Information
- Governor Newsom signed AB 708 on September 28, 2026; Health and Safety Code Section 124241.2 takes effect January 1, 2027.Office of the Governor
Sources2 articles across 2 outlets
California Legislative Information
Office of the Governor
Filed under
RegulationCal.AB 708 — California Youth Football Act: safety equipmentCompliancePublic safetyFor practitionersFor governance