The American Heart Association brings its "Start Walking" campaign to the Capitol.

A bill in the House of Representatives would require Missouri schools to have physical education programs in place and establish standards for school meals. Stephen Hill is with the American Heart Association in Missouri.

He says the organization also wants everyone to start walking … an activity Hill says can lead to living a longer, healthier life.

Hill says studies show that today’s youth could be the first generation that won’t outlive their parents. He’s urging everyone to start walking — and to contact their legislator and support House Bill 509 .

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Rick Stream (R-Kirkwood) , would require Missouri schools to have physical education programs in place and establish standards for school meals. Hill says decreasing activity and high-calorie, high-carb diets are contributing to the childhood obesity epidemic.

Hill says obesity is a growing trend among adults and children across the nation — Missouri is no exception.

Jessica Machetta reports [Download/listen MP3]