45th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2002

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC EDUCATION TO STUDY AND IDENTIFY THE HEALTH AND EDUCATION BENEFITS OF INCREASED PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTHY, NUTRITIOUS FOOD AND BEVERAGE ALTERNATIVES IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS.

WHEREAS, the health and lifestyle of children in elementary schools is of particular concern to New Mexicans; and

WHEREAS, some elementary schools feed children products and beverages that offer little nutritional value;

and

WHEREAS, there has been an inadequate emphasis on promoting physical education and the health benefits of an active lifestyle in elementary schools; and

WHEREAS, experienced teachers readily testify to the negative influence of lack of physical activity and some food products and beverages available to elementary school children; and

WHEREAS, the state department of public education, the department of health and other interested agencies have a desire and an obligation to address the health and welfare of children attending elementary public schools;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the department of health be requested to lead a study, with the participation of the state department of public education, representatives of food and beverage industries and other interested persons to identify the extent to which the availability of physical education and nutritious food products and beverages can better contribute to healthy lifestyles among elementary school children; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the study identify measures that can be implemented to promote healthy lifestyles among elementary school children, including physical education and proper availability of certain food products and beverages; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the study include participation from the health sciences center of the university of New Mexico, a statewide association of nutritionists and other interested parties; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the department of health report its findings and recommendations to the legislative health and human services committee and the legislative education study committee at their respective October 2002 meetings; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the chairs of the legislative health and human services committee and the legislative education study committee, the director of the legislative education study committee, the secretary of health and the state superintendent of public instruction.