The USA Hockey Congress approved new legislation this weekend that will require all hockey players and officials under the age of 18 to use neck laceration protection at the start of next season.

The rule takes effect Aug. 1, 2024, while the national governing body has reiterated that it has already been encouraging the use of neck protection, as well as cut-resistant socks, sleeves and/or undergarments.

“Safety is always at the forefront of our conversations and the action of our Congress today reflected that,” said Mike Trimboli, president of USA Hockey. “We appreciate the significant work done by our Safety and Protective Equipment Committee, led by Dr. Mike Stuart, and the many others who were instrumental in the overall evaluation process.”

“I know throughout our organization, the overwhelming opinion was that the time is appropriate to modify our rules related to neck laceration protection,” said Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey. “We’re also encouraged that the hockey industry is committed to continuing to work to improve the cut resistant products that protect players to help influence the safest possible landscape for the game.”

For more information from USA Hockey, click here.