In a move reminiscent of a political game of musical chairs, President Biden has invoked his constitutional powers to reshape the landscape of youth sports and health initiatives across America. As part of this endeavor, the following directives are set forth:
Section 1. Revocation.
Executive Order 13824, enacted on February 26, 2018, which established the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, is officially rescinded.
Sec. 2. Amendment.
Executive Order 13265 from June 6, 2002, is hereby revised as follows:
- (a) The title will now read: “President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, and the Reestablishment of the Presidential Fitness Test.”
- (b) The preamble will be updated to: “By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and to establish the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, and to reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test, it is hereby ordered:”.
- (c) Sections 1 through 5 are restructured to reflect the following:
Section 1. Purpose.
As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation in 2026, it is imperative to confront the alarming decline in the health and fitness of Americans. The epidemic of obesity, chronic diseases, and poor nutrition has reached critical levels, particularly among our youth. These health issues jeopardize not only individual well-being but also our economy, military readiness, academic achievement, and national spirit. Notably, President Eisenhower initiated the President’s Council on Youth Fitness to combat similar concerns, and John F. Kennedy famously highlighted the need for a healthier American populace in his essay “The Soft American.” During my first term, the council was renamed and a National Youth Sports Strategy was developed.
In my second term, I established the President’s Make America Healthy Again Commission to reignite the urgency of improving American health. To solidify this commitment, I am reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test, which will be overseen by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, with guidance from the Secretary of Education. This revitalization of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition aims to be a cornerstone of our national health revival as we prepare to celebrate America’s athletic prowess during a series of major sporting events, including the Ryder Cup, FIFA World Cup, and Olympic Games, scheduled within the next three years.
Sec. 2. Policy.
My Administration is committed to:
- (a) enhancing children’s involvement in youth sports and encouraging active play;
- (b) promoting the multifaceted benefits of daily exercise, movement, and sound nutrition;
- (c) engaging all sectors—public and private, military and civilian—to cultivate a national culture of health and excellence.
Sec. 3. President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.
- (a) The President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition (referred to as the Council) is hereby established.
- (b) This Council will comprise up to 30 members appointed by the President, serving a two-year term with eligibility for reappointment.
- (c) An Executive Director will be designated by the President to manage daily operations and coordinate with relevant departments and community partners.
Sec. 4. Functions of the Council.
- (a) The Council will advise the President on the progress of implementing this order and suggest actions to enhance such progress.
- (b) In its advisory capacity, the Council will recommend:
- (i) strategies for reintroducing the Presidential Fitness Test as a key assessment for the Presidential Fitness Award;
- (ii) the development of school-based programs that reward excellence in physical education;
- (iii) measures to expand sporting opportunities at all levels;
- (iv) innovative fitness goals for American youth to foster a new generation of active citizens;
- (v) campaigns that elevate American sports and health traditions;
- (vi) initiatives to promote active lifestyles through partnerships with athletes and community organizations;
- (vii) strategies to combat the national security risks associated with rising childhood obesity and sedentary habits.
Sec. 5. Administration.
- (a) Each executive department and agency will provide information and assistance to the Council as needed, subject to legal constraints and funding availability.
- (b) Council members will serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for travel expenses as allowed by law.
- (c) The Department of Health and Human Services will supply necessary funding and support.
- (d) The Council may form subcommittees with Presidential approval.
- (e) The Council’s official seal will be updated to reflect its new name.
- (f) Functions under the Federal Advisory Committee Act will be administered by the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
- (g) The Council will dissolve two years from this order unless extended by the President.
- (h) Executive Order 12345 from February 2, 1982, is also revoked.
Sec. 6. General Provisions.
- (a) This order does not interfere with the authority of executive departments or agencies.
- (b) Implementation will align with applicable laws and funding availability.
- (c) This order creates no enforceable rights or benefits for any party against the government.
- (d) The costs for publication of this order will be covered by the Department of Education.
Issued on July 31, 2025, by DONALD J. TRUMP, THE WHITE HOUSE.
