House Bill No. 1493, known as the "Growing Minds, Active Kids Act," aims to enhance the physical and mental well-being of students in Oklahoma by mandating daily recess. The bill requires school districts to incorporate at least thirty minutes of daily recess for students in full-day prekindergarten, kindergarten, and grades one through five, while strongly recommending the same for grades six through eight. The recess can be divided into segments to accommodate school schedules and must occur outside unless weather conditions necessitate indoor activities. Additionally, the bill specifies that recess for students with disabilities must align with their individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans.

The legislation also includes a provision exempting virtual charter schools from these requirements. The intent behind the act is to recognize the importance of recess as a necessary break from academic work, promoting physical activity, social interaction, and improved focus among students. The bill emphasizes that the daily recess is in addition to existing physical education requirements and declares an emergency for its immediate implementation upon passage and approval.