ALBANY (AP) -- New York lawmakers have approved new protections for student athletes who get concussions.

The new rules require immediately benching those who may have a mild traumatic brain injury and keeping them sidelined from sports or gym classes until they're symptom-free for at least 24 hours and obtain written authorization from a doctor.

It directs the state Education Department, in consultation with the Health Department, to adopt the rules for school-sponsored or related activities and calls for each school district to establish a group responsible for staff training and student and parent education.

Following Senate approval Monday, the Assembly Codes Committee cleared it for a floor vote Tuesday with backing of Speaker Sheldon Silver.

It will take effect on July 1 after it is signed into law.

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