Press Releases

U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) announced that the House of Representatives recently approved H.R. 1585, The FIT Kids Act. As a co-sponsor of this bill, Rogers joined his colleagues in the House in encouraging children to be active throughout the school day and learn how to be responsible for a healthy lifestyle in order to battle obesity, diabetes, and weight-related health issues.

“The epidemic of obesity and weight-related diseases have adversely affected southern and eastern Kentucky,” said Rogers. “It is high time we get moving and make smart dietary decisions. Better foods and physical fitness information and coordination will go a long way toward lowering the cost of medical bills and improving the quality of life for families in our region. The FIT Kids Act will provide parents, teachers and students with the information they need to live a long and healthy life.”

This bill would address the childhood obesity epidemic by ensuring that children are physically active and learn how to be personally responsible for their health through exercise and a healthy diet. Locally, Rogers has long been active in promoting active lifestyles in children and adults. Since 2008, Rogers has secured $780,000 for the “Martin County on the Move” initiative which works with community leaders, schools, and businesses to draw attention to healthy lifestyle choices and combat the region’s high rate of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Rogers is also a supporter of Operation UNITE’s school programs, such as “Shoot Hoops, Not Drugs” and “Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs” which promote healthy activities for children throughout the district.

This legislation favorably passed out of the House of Representatives on April 21, 2010 and awaits Senate consideration. Rogers works to obtain federal funding for projects across southern and eastern Kentucky in his role as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.