New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4140

Introduced
6/2/22  

Caption

Requires certain school districts to include fitness and nutrition wellness program as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

Impact

If enacted, A4140 would require that school districts develop and include a comprehensive wellness program as part of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Health and Physical Education. This program would not only address basic nutrition education, teaching students about different food groups and healthy eating practices, but also emphasize the importance of physical activity. The bill highlights a proactive approach to health education in schools, encouraging a community-oriented strategy where parents and guardians are also involved through workshops and events focused on fitness and nutrition.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4140 proposes the implementation of a fitness and nutrition wellness program in school districts across New Jersey that serve grades kindergarten through six. The primary goal of this bill is to combat the rising epidemic of childhood obesity, which has been recognized by various health authorities as a significant public health concern. By embedding nutrition and fitness education into the school curriculum, the bill aims to foster healthier habits among children, ultimately aiming to mitigate long-term health issues associated with obesity, such as diabetes and hypertension.

Contention

While the bill appears to advocate for the health of children, it may face various points of contention. Opponents may raise concerns about the additional responsibilities and potential costs that implementing such programs could impose on school districts, particularly in funding and staffing. Additionally, debates may arise regarding the effectiveness of such educational programs in producing tangible health outcomes versus the investment needed. Moreover, the bill's provisions might be perceived as overly prescriptive, possibly limiting local school districts' autonomy to establish their own health education standards.

Companion Bills

NJ S2519

Same As Requires certain school districts to include fitness and nutrition wellness program as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2519

Requires certain school districts to include fitness and nutrition wellness program as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ A673

Requires certain school districts to include fitness and nutrition wellness program as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ S2902

Requires school districts to provide instruction on menstrual health and hygiene as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ A3736

Requires school districts to provide instruction on menstrual health and hygiene as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ A1981

Requires school districts to provide instruction on menstrual health and hygiene as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ S1954

Requires school districts to provide instruction on bleed control as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ S2974

Requires school districts to provide instruction on bleed control as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ A4573

Requires school districts to provide instruction on bleed control as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ A2022

Requires school districts to include instruction on bullying awareness and prevention as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ A5533

Requires school districts to include instruction on bullying awareness and prevention as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

Similar Bills

NJ A673

Requires certain school districts to include fitness and nutrition wellness program as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ S2519

Requires certain school districts to include fitness and nutrition wellness program as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

WV SB219

Relating to nutrition and exercise education

WV HB3048

Allow a school district to develop or adopt a program in which the subject of nutrition and exercise education is taught

NJ AJR71

Designates fourth week in April of each year as "Every Kid Healthy Week."

NJ AJR98

Designates fourth week in April of each year as "Every Kid Healthy Week."

CO SB048

Diabetes Prevention & Obesity Treatment Act

TX HB1601

Relating to the prohibition, prevention, and remedying of certain discrimination.