Gov. Perry Ceremonially Signs School Physical Fitness Bill

Press Release

Gov. Perry Ceremonially Signs School Physical Fitness Bill

Gov. Rick Perry today ceremonially signed Senate Bill 530, implementing new middle school physical activity requirements and requiring physical fitness evaluations for public school students. Perry was joined by legislators, local education leaders, teachers, parents and students at Forest Vista Elementary School.

"Unhealthy habits at a young age can lead to diabetes, and over time, to heart disease, strokes and even cancer," Gov. Perry said. "Combined with the healthy guidelines that the Texas Department of Agriculture has implemented in the school lunch program, this legislation will help make children healthier today for a healthier Texas tomorrow."

Senate Bill 530 requires annual physical fitness evaluations of all students in 3rd through 12th grade beginning this school year. Results of the evaluation will be reported to and analyzed by the Texas Education Agency and will help inform parents of their child's physical fitness, which will help guide them toward a healthier lifestyle.

This legislation will also increase the requirement of middle school students' participation in physical education (PE) from two semesters to four semesters beginning in the 2008-2009 school year. Middle schools students may also fulfill the PE requirement through local sports league participation authorized by the Texas Education Agency.

Senate Bill 530 became effective June 15, 2007.

Source