Rep. Lofgren Introduces ZZZ’s to A’s Act

Legislation Would Encourage Secondary Schools to Open Later

Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) today introduced H.Con.Res.227, the ZZZ’s to A’s Act, which encourages secondary schools to begin the school at 9:00 a.m. later. According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) 60% of children under the age of 18 complain that they are tired during the day. Research has also shown that secondary school students perform better later in the day than early in the morning. A study by Brown University Professor Mary A. Carskadon found that melatonin secretion occurred at a later time in adolescents as they mature; thus, making it difficult for them to go to sleep earlier at night. The melatonin secretion also turns off later in the morning, which makes it harder to wake up early. Over time, sleep deprivation leads to serious consequences for academic achievement, social behavior, and the health and safety of our nation's youth.

“This legislation will bring much needed attention to adolescent sleep deprivation,” commented Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “Science has shown us that sleep and achievement are linked, for students to be successful they need their sleep. School hours should mirror adolescents' biological sleep and wake patterns and more closely resembling the adult work day. The ZZZ’s to A’s Act legislation is an important step in addressing the health needs of America’s students.”

Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren is serving her seventh term in Congress representing most of the City of San Jose and Santa Clara County. She serves as Chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law. She also Chairs the House Administration Subcommittee on Elections and serves on the House Homeland Security Committee. Congresswoman Lofgren is Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation consisting of 34 Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives from California.