Committee recommends bill to require presidential physical fitness test in K–12 PE
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Summary
A Rural Health Transformation Committee division reviewed LC 25.1383, a special-session draft that would require the presidential physical fitness test as part of physical education in elementary, middle and high schools, and recommended the draft to the full committee after a brief staff overview and a voice vote.
Chair Senator Lee convened the division to review four special-session drafts and asked legislative counsel to give a brief overview. Beth Dittis, legislative counsel, described LC 25.1383 (25.1383 10.00) as “a bill relating to requiring the presidential physical fitness test and physical education courses in elementary, middle, and high schools,” and noted the draft includes the required effective-date clause for special-session bills.
Members raised questions about outreach to school officials and the Department of Public Instruction. Senator Hogan asked whether DPI and school feedback had been solicited; staff said they had not received formal DPI comments on the draft but reported that some officials, including Levi Bachmeier, had expressed general support for increased physical activity in schools.
After discussion, Senator Hogan moved to recommend adoption of LC 25.1383 as presented; Representative Freilich seconded the motion. The division carried the measure by voice vote. Dittis and the chair said formal public testimony will be available in the special session public hearing, and the division’s recommendation will be considered by the full committee there.
Next steps: the draft will be forwarded through the committee process toward the special session standing committee and the public hearing required for special-session bills.
