Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-Mid-Island) announced today that he has joined Sen. John DeFranciso (R-Syracuse) in sponsoring a bill that would establish a New York state Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Sports and Health.
The bill would provide for the establishment of an advisory council to the Governor, responsible for encouraging New Yorkers to live a healthier lifestyle. It would also establish the council’s duties and funding.
“We have been talking about the rise in obesity in children for at least two decades. In New York State over 8.5 million adult New Yorkers are considered overweight or obese. Unfortunately, obesity is not just a problem for adults. More than 30 percent of children are overweight before they even reach their teens, and the numbers are even worse for adolescents. These alarming statistics add to the cost of health care due to increased medical expenses caused by obesity. For example, diabetes, which is often caused by excessive weight, costs our state $12 billion annual in health care costs,” said Assemblyman Cusick.
“In 2007, I established the ‘Total Fitness Challenge’ open to all Staten Island students from pre-kindergarten through 5th grade – combining physical and mental activity in an encouraging, creative way. This program takes place during the school summer break and challenges participating children to read at least 15 minutes every day and perform as many physical activities as they want. A Total Fitness medal is awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place top scorers from each grade among the island-wide entries,” continued Cusick.
“This legislation I have introduced today coincides with my efforts started in 2007 to educate and promote healthy lifestyles, particularly with our youth. The goal of the bill is to increase awareness with obesity issues and to promote sports and physical fitness activities within our State. The Council, established under this legislation, would be responsible for partnering with schools and community groups to further promote these goals. This bill is about taking charge and recognizing the need to promote a healthier lifestyle,” said Assemblyman Cusick.
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