Lt. Governor Carney Applauds Passage of HB 372 and HB 471

Lt. Governor John C. Carney, Jr. praised the House and Senate for passing important legislation that encourages Delaware's children to live healthier, more active lifestyles. With the clock closing in on midnight, the Delaware Senate passed HB 372 and HB 471, approving recommendations made this March by the Physical Education Task Force. Lt. Governor Carney served on the task force with co-chairs Sen. Bunting and Rep. Ulbrich.

"Physical activity should be an important part of our daily lives," Lt. Governor Carney stated, "By getting our children in the habit of exercising regularly, it is more likely that they will continue to have a healthy lifestyle as they grow older. One of the best ways to do this is through physical fitness programs in school."

HB 372 requires each school district and charter school to assess the physical fitness of their students. Students' physical fitness will be assessed at least once in elementary, middle, and high school, and the parents, guardians, or relative caregivers will be given the results. The bill seeks to provide a baseline level of health for each student, as well as give parents or guardians notice if their child is at risk of developing obesity or other chronic diseases.

HB 471 authorizes a physical fitness pilot program for six schools throughout the state. Each school in the pilot will give their students 150 minutes per week of a combination of physical education and physical activity.

"There is a direct connection between our physical and mental health. More physical activity in schools will improve students' academic performance, as well as their overall physical health", said Lt. Governor Carney.

The Lt. Governor's Challenge, which Carney started four years ago, aims to increase physical activity for both children and adults. Since the program began, over 17,000 children have participated.