This bill mandates that all public school districts, school administrative units (SAUs), and public charter school boards establish a policy that guarantees a minimum of 45 to 60 minutes of recess per day for students in grades kindergarten through sixth grade. The bill defines "recess" as unstructured physical activity that promotes fitness and well-being, which must include peer-to-peer play outside unless weather conditions prevent it. Additionally, recess is specified to be separate from physical education and cannot be deducted from other instructional time or lunch, nor can it be withheld as punishment.
The legislation also allows for flexibility, permitting districts, SAUs, and charter school boards to adjust the required recess time in specific situations, such as special circumstances, school events, or adverse weather conditions. The bill inserts a new section, RSA 194:15-d, into current law, establishing these requirements while deleting any conflicting provisions regarding recess time. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.