HI HCR186

Urges school administrators, teachers, parents, and students to educate themselves about health impacts of heavy backpacks and take proactive measures to prevent injury.

Requests the Board of Education develop policies allowing licensed chiropractors to conduct scoliosis examinations in schools.

Directs schools to work with parent-teacher associations to assess student backpack weight and develop strategies to reduce the need for daily transport of all school materials and books.

Recommends schools promote seven specific backpack safety practices including limiting weight to 10 percent of body weight, using ergonomic backpacks with padded straps, wearing both shoulder straps, and considering electronic textbooks.

Requires copies of the resolution be sent to the Board of Education Chairperson, Superintendent of Education, Hawaii Association of Independent Schools Director, and Hawaii State Public Charter School Commission Executive Director.