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Insufficient physical activity has been consistently linked to obesity, attention deficit disorders, poor sleep, and poor mental health. In children, these challenges result in long-term educational and developmental challenges, which leave them underprepared for adulthood. 

Despite the clear benefits of daily recess, only nine states require daily recess for elementary school students. Additionally, many public schools across the U.S. have reduced or completely eliminated opportunities for students to engage in physical activity.

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the Make America Active Again Act which would set minimum physical activity requirements, in the form of recess or physical education (PE) courses, for elementary schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. The bill would require elementary school students in participating schools to engage in at least 150 minutes of recess or PE each week.

• “As public health outcomes increasingly trend in the wrong direction, it is obvious that the elimination of recess and physical education from public school has been a tragic mistake. The habits our public schools instill in our children will carry forward for the rest of their lives, and it should be a priority to promote health and wellness. Every elementary school student in Florida is guaranteed daily recess or PE. With the Make America Active Again Act, we will ensure every child in the United States has the opportunity to participate in physical activity during the school day.” – Senator Rubio

Flashback … Senator Rubio is a proponent of finding ways to give Americans the proper tools to live healthy lives. In the 118th Congress, he introduced the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Nutrition Act, the Healthy SNAP Act and the SNAP Nutrition Security Act.  

Looking Forward… Senator Rubio will continue to advocate for his health and nutrition priorities in the upcoming FY 25 farm bill.