Bill that increases daily recess time for elementary students passes Tenn. legislature

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — A bill has passed Tennessee legislation that aims to enhance academic outcomes and student well-being by increasing daily recess time for elementary students.

House Bill 0085, sponsored by State Rep. Scott Cepicky (R-Culleoka), mandates that school districts provide at least 40 minutes of recess each day. Currently, the state minimum requirement is 15 minutes of recess per day for elementary students with 130 minutes per week.

"Republicans are working hard to ensure Tennessee students receive the highest quality education in the nation, and providing adequate time for physical activity is essential to delivering on this priority," said Cepicky. "The evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates that increasing access to unstructured, screen-free recess improves academic outcomes, physical health, and mental well-being. This common-sense legislation is an important step in giving children in the Volunteer State a more balanced and productive school day."

The bill specifies that recess should consist of unstructured outdoor play, with exceptions for dangerous weather conditions. It excludes Physical Education (P.E.) classes and time allotted for students to use electronic devices.

Additionally, the legislation prohibits withholding physical activity as a form of punishment.

A report from the Tennessee Department of Health and the Tennessee Department of Education indicated that over 40% of Tennessee students were overweight or obese during the 2022-23 academic year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention supports the benefits of recess, noting that it can enhance memory, attention span, concentration, and social and emotional development, while also reducing disruptive classroom behavior.

The bill has been sent to Gov. Bill Lee for signature. If signed into law, the changes will take effect on July 1 for implementation in the 2025-26 academic year.

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