The “Fat Bill” is Back

Questions: Who’s responsible for a child’s health – the school or parents?
If H.B. 229 passes, what happens to students who are judged “fat?”
Will teachers or social workers enter homes and condemn the family diet?
Will students be graded on their eating habits or body fat index?

Who decides the criteria for “out of shape” and how will penalties be administered?
Background. The “fat bill” died last session, but it’s back. Last year the Senate introduced it February 22, 2008 and passed it seven days later. The House killed it in April. So, why a fat bill? With no scheduled time for play, children are not as lean as past generations. What to do? Recess and playgrounds would be best, but educators want the law – the SHAPE Act, S.B. 506 dubbed the “fat bill” – that was defeated last year. But it’s been introduced again this session.

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