Gov. McDonnell Vetoes Bill For More PE Classes

Virginia Gov.  Bob McDonnell has vetoed Senate Bill 966,

The state mandate, which passed in the General Assembly in February, was strongly opposed by local school districts, including Fairfax County,  and teachers concerned about the financial impact of its implementation.

Fairfax County Public Schools currently offer at least 60 minutes of physical education a week, says Elizabeth Payne, FCPS Physical Education Coordinator.

“While the objective of this legislation is laudable, the proposed means of accomplishment is problematic,"  McDonnell (R) said in a statement.  "Education officials advised me that this measure would cost them tens of millions of dollars. Fairfax County estimates the fiscal impact at $18-24 million; Chesterfield County places their potential costs at $6.9 million.

“In addition, this mandated time for physical education would exceed the time dedicated to any other subject in our public school system, and potentially cut into crucial time in the classroom needed for instruction in math, science, history and reading," McDonnell said. "Our local school districts are facing tough budgetary times, and we simply cannot ask them now to incorporate an expensive new policy with no new funding.”

 McDonnell said he supports the idea of more activity for youth in general, and encourages parents to get involved to make sure children are more active. 

“I am a strong proponent of the importance of exercise for our young people, he said. "However, we should not attempt to achieve important goals by disproportionately placing the burden of implementation on others.  While I strongly agree that we must encourage exercise and physical activity,  I oppose unfunded mandates, whether they come from Washington or Richmond.  In the fight against childhood obesity, we all have a role to play."

The General Assembly will consider the veto when it meets the first week of April for the reconvened session.