Legislation : Physical Activity Resolution

North Dakota Public Health Association Resolution Supporting Physical Activity State Level Infrastructure

Recognizing the need to establish a dedicated program manager within the Department of Health to develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive statewide plan to increase physical activity levels among all North Dakotans, to help prevent and control obesity and chronic disease. 

Whereas, physical inactivity has contributed to an unprecedented epidemic of obesity in the state.

Whereas, over the past ten years the prevalence of obese adults in North Dakota increased from 13 percent to over 23 percent (BRFSS).

Whereas, over the past ten years the prevalence of overweight adults increased from a rate of 34 percent to 41 percent (BRFSS).

Whereas, only 35% of middle school and 37% high school students participate in daily physical activity (2003 YRBS).

Whereas, less than 50% of ND adults meet the recommendations for moderate or vigorous physical activity and nearly 8 percent reported no physical activity or exercise (2003 BRFSS).

Concluding that, physical health and well-being of all North Dakotans must be protected by encouraging increased physical activity at home, in the workplace and schools.

Therefore be it Resolved that the North Dakota Public Health Association:

Endorses and supports the establishment of a dedicated program manager within the Department of Health to provide training and technical assistance on physical activity, represent the physical interests, and work with related partners.

Supports funding through the North Dakota Legislature in the North Dakota Department of Health Budget for Physical Activity Infrastructure.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to each North Dakota legislator.

Adopted by North Dakota Public Health Association, March 8, 2005