SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)  -- If your child isn't as physically fit as you'd like, an East Bay state lawmaker is coming to the rescue with proposed legislation offering rewards for getting youngsters to shape up.

Assembly member Mary Hayashi was at Parker Elementary in East Oakland to announce Assembly Bill 2072, the Excellence in Physical Education Act of 2008.

“We can’t afford to ignore the inactive and unhealthy lifestyle of our children,” explained Hayashi. “Obesity causes a variety of life threatening and costly health problems, including diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.”

The proposed legislation is the brainchild of Mayor Ron Dellums. “We, because of child obesity and other issues, are perhaps the first generation of adults that may very well outlive our own children. That is a great tragedy,” said Dellums.

Under AB 2072 schools would receive a non-monetary reward for meeting state physical education standards. Even with no layout of state dollars and in a difficult budget year, the bill could fall prey to capital politics.

“Sometimes art, physical fitness go out the window. So here’s an opportunity to say no. Physical fitness and health is an integral part of the education and well-being of our children,” said Dellums, a self-described workout buff.

The main goal is to see students graduate, but physical fitness can't be understated, explained Vince Matthews, the state administrator for the school district.

“That does not leave out that we are excited and we are enthusiastically trying to educate the whole child,” added Matthews.

KCBS' George Harris reports

(gma)