Pugh Bill Brings Presidential Fitness Test back to schools

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Education Committee Chair Senator Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, announced he has filed legislation for the upcoming legislative session to establish the Presidential Fitness Test as a statewide standard for youth physical fitness in Oklahoma schools, aligning with President Donald Trump’s executive order reestablishing the program nationally.

The legislation follows Oklahoma’s recent award of $4,075,000 through the Oklahoma Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP, part of a $233 million total grant), which supports initiatives focused on improving long-term health outcomes for Oklahoma communities.

Under Senate Bill 1437, the Oklahoma State Department of Education would be directed to develop statewide guidelines for school districts to assess students’ overall physical fitness and encourage lifelong healthy habits. The guidelines would be based on recommendations from the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition and aligned with the RHTP framework.

Senator Pugh said he looks forward to working with parents, educators and school leaders as the legislation advances during the 2026 legislative session, which begins in February.

“Physical activity is one of the most important investments we can make in our kids’ future,” Senator Pugh said. “Being active and healthy isn’t just about strength or endurance. It’s about building a foundation for better mental health, stronger academic performance and long-term wellbeing. This legislation encourages healthy habits early in life and supports a culture of fitness that benefits students for a lifetime. These are foundational habits that support overall health and that should always be our goal.”