The obesity epidemic has reached our nation's children. In 2004, more than 9 million children and adolescents 6 to 19 years old were considered overweight. The Department of Health and Human Services estimates that by 2010, 20 percent of children in the United States will be obese. Overweight adolescents have a 70 percent chance of becoming overweight adults.
Fitness Integrated with Teaching Kids Act (FIT Kids Act)
To address the unprecedented childhood obesity epidemic, the Fitness Integrated with Teaching Kids Act (FIT Kids Act) was re-introduced on March 18, 2009 in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Ron Kind (D-WI), Zach Wamp (R-TN) and Jay Inslee (D-WA); and in the U.S. Senate by Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA). If enacted, the FIT Kids Act would amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (No Child Left Behind) to ensure that kids are active during the school day and know how to stay healthy through diet and exercise. The American Heart Association endorses the FIT Kids Act and is working with the Congressional champions and supportive organizations to advocate for its passage by Congress.
Background
Letters to Congress
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