The White House has issued a new executive order revoking Executive Order 13824 of February 26, 2018, and amending Executive Order 13265 of June 6, 2002. The changes reestablish the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition and reinstate the Presidential Fitness Test.
According to the order, "As the United States prepares to celebrate its semiquincentennial anniversary in 2026, we must address the threat to the vitality and longevity of our country that is posed by America’s declining health and physical fitness. For far too long, the physical and mental health of the American people has been neglected. Rates of obesity, chronic disease, inactivity, and poor nutrition are at crisis levels, particularly among our children. These trends weaken our economy, military readiness, academic performance, and national morale. President Eisenhower recognized this issue when he created the President’s Council on Youth Fitness in response to reports on the poor state of youth fitness in America. As President-elect, John F. Kennedy famously published an essay titled 'The Soft American,' which outlined the imperative for improved health in order to maintain a strong and vital America. During my first term, I renamed the council the 'President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition' and directed the development of a National Youth Sports Strategy, among other activities."
The order states that recent actions include creating the President’s Make America Healthy Again Commission during the current administration's second term to prioritize improving Americans' health. It further notes: "Now, we build further. To advance this commitment, I hereby reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test, which shall be administered by the Secretary of Health and Human Services with the support of the Secretary of Education."
With these measures set forth in this executive order from July 31st at The White House by President Donald J. Trump, "With this order, I revitalize the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition as a cornerstone of our national health renewal. In 2026 we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our great Nation, honor the 70th anniversary of the original President’s Council on Youth Fitness, and showcase America’s continued global dominance in sports. Over the next 3 years America will host the Ryder Cup, The President’s Cup ,the FIFA World Cup ,and The Olympic Games —the world’s premiere sporting competitions.These events will provide inspiration for all generations of Americans."
Among its stated policies are expanding children's participation in youth sports; promoting benefits associated with daily movement; exercise; good nutrition; as well as engaging public/private sectors along with civilian/military groups to foster a culture emphasizing strength.
The reestablished Council will have up to thirty members appointed by presidential authority for two-year terms—with possible reappointment—and may form subcommittees as needed.
Its functions include advising on strategies for implementing improvements to fitness assessments like awarding Presidential Fitness Awards; developing programs rewarding excellence in physical education; recommending ways to increase participation at all levels; setting ambitious goals for youth wellness; promoting campaigns supporting military readiness/traditions; building partnerships with professional athletes/organizations/community groups; addressing childhood obesity/chronic disease/sedentary lifestyle risks that could affect workforce/military preparedness.
Support for administrative needs—including funding—will be provided mainly through existing resources within Health & Human Services as permitted by law.
Council members serve without pay but can receive travel reimbursement according to applicable statutes.
Executive Order 12345 (Physical Fitness & Sports) is also revoked under this directive.
Finally: "Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect: (i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency... (ii) the functions of Director Office Management Budget relating budgetary administrative legislative proposals... This order is not intended create any right benefit substantive procedural enforceable law equity against United States... Costs publication borne Department Education."
Donald J. Trump signed this action at The White House on July 31st.
