Bill · H.Res. 1036· House(119-HRES-1036)
Expressing support for the annual designation of the first Saturday after the Spring Equinox as ''National Day of Play''.
- Introduced
- 2/4/2026
- Last activity
- 2/4/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Sponsored by
- Ami Bera
- Cosponsors
- - 0 - 1
- Introduced
- In Committee
A House resolution is the House speaking for itself: stating a position, honouring someone, or setting its own rules. Adopting it is the whole process. Once the House agrees to it, it is officially the House's word; it is not a law, so the Senate and the President have no part in it.
What this bill would do
This resolution expresses support for designating the first Saturday after the Spring Equinox as the "National Day of Play." It aims to recognize the importance of social connection for mental, physical, and social development. The resolution highlights concerns regarding an epidemic of loneliness, social isolation, and excessive device use. By establishing this day, the House of Representatives seeks to encourage people to put down their electronics and participate in play. This initiative serves to celebrate the essential role of social connections and community involvement.
Yes· 3 of 8
Would children be better off under this?+5
The resolution notes that play is essential for children's brain development, social skills, and helps counter the negative impacts of excessive screen time.
Would students be better off under this?+4
The resolution emphasizes play for social, emotional, and cognitive development which is vital for students.
Would people over 65 be better off under this?+3
The resolution notes that social connection can help reduce the risk of dementia and heart disease.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Promotes Mental and Physical Health: The resolution notes that social connection can reduce the risk of chronic disease, serious illness, and help manage stress, anxiety, and depression. It also mentions that play can reduce obesity and associated diseases. (Resolution text)
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Encourages Social Development: Play is described as providing space to develop essential social skills like communication, cooperation, empathy, and negotiation. It also promotes brain development, executive function skills, and creativity. (Resolution text)
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Strengthens Community Bonds: The day encourages participation in community-organized events and helps strengthen community bonds by promoting social connections in places like neighborhoods, schools, and parks. (Resolution text)
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Reduces Negative Effects of Technology: The resolution encourages people to take a break from electronics and screen time, which can provide physical, mental, and social benefits and counter the "absent presence" caused by excessive device use. (Resolution text)
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- No negative impacts are explicitly stated in the text.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Children+5Good For Students+4Good For Retirees+3Good For Seniors+3Good For Middle Aged+2Good For Young Adults+2
- Healthcare
- Improves Mental Health Access+3Improves Opioid Crisis Response+1
- 2/4/2026
- Submitted in House
- Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 1 Cosponsor added.
Mike FloodRepublican · Nebraska