BILL NUMBER: SCR 77	INTRODUCED
	BILL TEXT


INTRODUCED BY   Senator Correa

                        FEBRUARY 19, 2010

   Relative to Childhood Obesity Prevention and Fitness Week.


	LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST


   SCR 77, as introduced, Correa. Childhood Obesity Prevention and
Fitness Week.
   This measure would proclaim the last full week in September in
each year as Childhood Obesity Prevention and Fitness Week, and would
express the Legislature's support of various programs that work to
reduce obesity and increase exercise among children.
   Fiscal committee: no.



   WHEREAS, Childhood obesity is recognized as a national epidemic
and can contribute to low self-esteem, poor body image, eating
disorders, and depression; and
   WHEREAS, Overweight children are at a greater risk of developing
many health problems during childhood, including type 2 diabetes,
high blood pressure, asthma, and orthopedic problems; and
   WHEREAS, Overweight children are more likely to be obese as
adults, putting them at a much higher risk for heart disease, cancer,
stroke, and other disabilities later in life; and
   WHEREAS, The rate of childhood obesity has tripled in children and
adolescents 6 to 19 years of age over the last three decades; and
   WHEREAS, In California, 30 percent of children 10 to 17 years of
age are considered overweight or obese; and
   WHEREAS, The highest rates of obesity are found in Hispanic,
African American, and Native American children, with rates that are
double those of Caucasian children; and
   WHEREAS, Those that are overweight, obese, or physically inactive
are estimated to cost California tens of billions of dollars for
medical care, workers' compensation, and lost productivity; and
   WHEREAS, Many factors contribute to childhood obesity, including
cultural barriers, urban safety, proximity to fast food, and the cost
or lack of access to healthier alternatives; and
   WHEREAS, Studies have shown that healthy eating habits and
exercise can improve a child's ability to learn, self-esteem, and
overall health; and
   WHEREAS, Current recommendations state that children should strive
for at least 30 minutes daily of moderate intensity physical
activity; now, therefore, be it
   Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly
thereof concurring, That the Legislature proclaims the last full week
in September in each year as Childhood Obesity Prevention and
Fitness Week in California; and be it further
   Resolved, That the Legislature supports programs that work to
increase exercise among children, work to educate children about
healthy eating habits, and work to remove barriers that contribute to
sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits; and be it further
   Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies to the
author for appropriate distribution.