Would not work here

According to a recent article, British school kids now have an opportunity to volunteer for an exercise program called the Daily Mile. For an hour a day they leave class and walk, run or jog one mile. The program— designed to fight obesity—has become very popular and successful.

But it’s another great idea that wouldn’t work on this side of the pond.

Why?Because we just couldn’t afford it. In the U.S., we would need a bureaucracy to create all the rules, regulations and guidelines for such a program. And of course, those bureaucrats would require salaries and benefit packages as well as costs for office space, furniture and equipment. And let’s not overlook the cost of those ubiquitous and uniquely American “Participation Trophies” we’d need for every kid in the program.

In addition, fighting lawsuits brought by parents of children exposed to the outdoors who develop colds, allergies, flu, sore muscles, or whatever would add more costs to the program. And if kids tripped or fell while doing the Daily Mile, more lawsuits would be launched against people being negligent about who knows what. And let’s not forget lawsuits from those who didn’t volunteer, claiming they’re being ignored and discriminated against. And of course, the ACLU would surely find some reason to intervene and sue the schools, cities, and states for violating someone’s rights about something.

Yep. The Brits have a great idea. But nope, just wouldn’t work here.

WILL COHEN North Little Rock