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Committee backs voluntary school fitness recognition program after unanimous support
Summary
The Senate Education Committee gave House Bill 2395 a due-pass recommendation after sponsors and witnesses described a voluntary ADE-administered fitness recognition program aimed at encouraging physical activity in schools and providing implementation guidance and best practices.
House Bill 2395, which would create a voluntary Arizona School Fitness Program administered by the Arizona Department of Education, received a due-pass recommendation from the Senate Education Committee on March 3, 2026.
The bill, described to the committee in summary by staff, would allow public schools that opt in to be recognized by ADE if they administer a nationally recognized physical fitness test or participate in an established fitness event. Schools that participate could include the fitness designation on their school report cards; ADE would develop implementation guidelines and identify best practices and resources for participating schools.
Representative Biasucci, the bill sponsor, told the committee the measure is meant to be voluntary and nonpunitive. “We didn't want any kind of penalties if they don't participate,” Biasucci said, arguing the policy is intended to encourage, not require, activity in schools.
Supporters described academic and health benefits linked to physical activity. Scott Turner of Healthy Future US told the panel that optional, well‑implemented fitness testing paired with instruction and resources can help reverse trends in youth chronic disease and improve classroom performance. “A mountain of research shows that physical activity energizes and literally enlarges brains,” Turner said.
Chuck Corbin, professor emeritus at Arizona State University, urged safeguards and teacher involvement. “Conducted well, fitness testing can be important in promoting the desire to be active and fit,” Corbin said, while cautioning that testing “inappropriately used can be harmful.” Josh Maibus, a National Board–certified teacher and program director at Northern Arizona University, said fitness testing provides a “wellness report card” teachers can use to tailor instruction.
After brief questions and closing remarks from the sponsor, the vice chair moved the bill with a due-pass recommendation. The committee’s roll call resulted in a recorded due-pass recommendation. The committee did not adopt any amendments. The committee’s next procedural step is the bill’s further consideration on the Senate floor or relevant committees.
