Last year, people across the country watched as dozens of brave young women gave powerful testimony against disgraced Michigan State University sports doctor Larry Nassar.

As a parent, former gymnast, and coach, the experiences the survivors shared really hit home. While no one can fix the awful things that happened to these young women, we have a duty to learn from the Nassar case and make reforms to better protect Michigan children from abuse.

I’m proud that a solution I introduced to help fix one of the root problems of Nassar’s widespread abuse was recently approved by the Michigan House with overwhelming support. My plan, House Bill 4376, would better protect student athletes by including athletic trainers in a list of professionals required to report evidence of child abuse, neglect, and sexual abuse. Recent events have made it clear that sometimes abuse goes unreported or is overlooked. If we ensure more people are proactive in identifying and reporting abuse it will better protect our children.

Athletic trainers work closely with young athletes, putting them in a position where they’re likely to pick up on signs of abuse or neglect. In many cases, these adults are even closer to student athletes than teachers because they spend a significant amount of time with the students.

Another piece of the plan ensures all mandatory reporters are properly trained to understand the duties and responsibilities of their role. I served as a mandatory reporter when I was a teacher, and I am confident that expanding the number of people who are proactive in identifying and reporting abuse will benefit our children.

I am honored to continue serving as your voice in Lansing, and always encourage residents to contact me with questions, concerns and ideas. Please feel free to reach out to my office at (517) 373-0839 or email [email protected].

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State Rep. Beth Griffin is serving her second term in the Michigan House representing the residents of Van Buren County, as well as Alamo Township, Cooper Township and the city of Parchment in Kalamazoo County.