Lake County Gazette

Illinois state Sen. Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) is the primary sponsor of a proposal that would allow students to be excused from physical education classes during religious fasting observation. 

House Bill 160 would require the parent or guardian of a fasting student to provide the school principal in writing that he or she is participating in religious fasting. 

"Fasting is a common practice not just in the Muslim religion, but also in Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism and more," Johnson said in a statement May 5. "It’s important that schools are sensitive to students’ needs when they might not be operating at full capacity."

Johnson's office said that fasting can cause "dizziness, fatigue, headaches and dehydration, which may lead to weakness or fainting, especially during exercise," making it possibly dangerous for students during physical education classes. 

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast daily from sunrise to sunset as a practice of spiritual discipline. Those of Jewish tradition fast during Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism. Several Christian denominations practice partial or full fasting during specific religious periods, including Lent. 

“This is about our children’s health, safety and well-being,” Johnson said. “Every child, regardless of their background, deserves to feel comfortable at school.”

The bill passed the House unanimously and had a second reading in the Senate on May 5.