On March 7, Spark, provider of the world’s most-researched physical education program and a division of School Specialty, will support its mission to ensure that all American children lead active and healthy lives by attending the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association’s (SGMA) 13th Annual National Health Through fitness Day in Washington, DC. Spark will join athletes, sporting goods and fitness manufacturers, physical fitness educators and others who will meet with members of Congress in an effort to pass legislation that will increase Americans’ participation in sports and fitness related activities. The legislation Spark will advocate for on behalf of SGMA includes The Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) Bill and The Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act.
“The passage of legislation like the PEP Bill and the PHIT Act is essential in ensuring that we are keeping America, and our youth, on track to live healthy and active lives. We hope this event will bring these pressing and important issues to the forefront of Congress,” said Paul Rosengard, executive director at Spark.
The PEP Bill offers funding for a grant program to provide schools and community organizations with physical education, while the PHIT Act offers income incentives for increased participation in sports- and fitness-based activities for all consumers. During the National Health Through Fitness Day, the consortium will request that congress continue funding for the PEP program in FY 2013 and change the current federal tax law to permit deductions or the usage of pre-tax dollars to cover expenses related to fitness, sports and other physical activities.
“With the issue of obesity growing nationally, it is imperative that as a community and as a country we support initiatives like those of SGMA’s National Health Through Fitness Day. By meeting with congress, we are taking the step toward a healthier America and we at Spark believe that is a necessary step for the future of our country,” said Rosengard.
