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House approves bill to reinstate presidential physical fitness test for K–12 students
Summary
On third reading the House passed HB 14‑66 to reconstitute the Presidential Physical Fitness test for K–12 students; debate focused on implementation logistics, equity for schools without gyms and injury concerns before the bill passed (Aye 80, Nay 11).
The Tennessee House voted to pass House Bill 14‑66 on third and final consideration, reconstituting the Presidential Physical Fitness test for K–12 students. Chairman Cipiche moved the bill and said the measure allows local school systems flexibility to choose who administers the test. The final recorded tally was 80 ayes and 11 nays, and the speaker declared the bill passed on a constitutional majority.
Opponents raised practical concerns on the floor. Representative Johnson asked who would administer the tests at schools that lack PE teachers and warned about the time and injury risk of components such as sit‑ups and running. "My other concern is, this test hasn't been changed over time... are you concerned at all about injuries with high school students in this test?" Johnson asked. Representative Pearson pressed the equity issue, arguing some districts lack gymnasiums or safe outdoor space and said the state should invest in school facilities before imposing uniform testing requirements. Chairman Cipiche responded that the bill provides local flexibility and noted options within the test for partial or complete assessments.
