| Sponsor | Rep. Altmire, Jason |
| Committee | Education and Labor |
| Date | June 9, 2009 (111th Congress, 1st Session) |
| Staff Contact | Ja'Ron Smith |
H.Res. 503 is being considered under suspension of the rules, requiring a two-thirds vote for passage. The legislation was introduced by Rep. Jason Altmire (D-PA) on June 4, 2009.
H.Res. 503 would resolve that Congress:
- "Recognizes National Physical Education and Sport Week and the central role of physical education and sports in creating a healthy lifestyle for all children and youth;
- "Calls on school districts to implement local wellness policies as defined by the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 that include ambitious goals for physical education, physical activity, and other activities addressing the childhood obesity epidemic and promoting child wellness; and
- "Encourages schools to offer physical education classes to students and work with community partners to provide opportunities and safe spaces for physical activities before and after school and during the summer months for all children and youth."
According to the resolution's findings, a decline in physical activity has contributed to the unprecedented epidemic of childhood obesity. Research shows that fit and active children are more likely to thrive academically, and participation in sports and physical activity improves self-esteem and body image in children and adults. The social and environmental factors affecting children are in the control of the adults and the communities in which they live, and therefore this Nation shares a collective responsibility in reversing the childhood obesity trend. May 1 through May 7, 2009, is observed as National Physical Education and Sport Week.