NFL backs national concussion bill sponsored by Illinois' Dick Durbin

Friday's health and safety news from the world of football:

• The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported that Illinois Senator Dick Durbin has introduced legislation that would nationalize procedures on treatment of concussions in youth athletics.

• USA Today High School Sports reported on a how the Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association has outlined new practice regulations to go in effect this fall, talking to the organization's Richard McWhirter.

• The Wall Street Journal looked at how the NCAA is attempting to track athletes' head injuries through recovery.

• The Northwest Herald of suburban Chicago called for greater emphasis on athletic trainers at area football games no matter the cost.

• UT-San Diego looked at the development of a blood marker in some concussion tests and how it could be a game-changer in recovery of concussion victims.

• that all Vacaville Unified School District athletes will undergo baseline testing beginning this fall as part of a mandatory program.

-- Bill Bradley, contributing editor