Every Kid Outdoors Reauthorization Act
Summary
The Every Kid Outdoors Reauthorization Act aims to permanently authorize and expand the Every Kid Outdoors program. This program allows fifth graders, including home-schooled learners aged 10 or 11, and their families free access to national parks and other federal lands. The bill also increases funding to $25 million per fiscal year to support the program's operations, outreach, and transportation services, particularly for underserved communities and children with disabilities.
Expected Effects
The reauthorization and increased funding will likely lead to greater participation in outdoor activities among youth and families. This could improve environmental awareness and promote the use of public lands. The focus on underserved communities may also reduce disparities in access to recreational opportunities.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to national parks and federal lands for fifth graders and their families.
- Enhanced environmental awareness and appreciation among young people.
- Targeted outreach to underserved communities and children with disabilities, promoting equity in access to outdoor recreation.
- Support for operational and staff support for the program, ensuring its sustainability.
- Potential for increased tourism and economic activity in areas surrounding national parks.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased financial burden on taxpayers due to the increased appropriation of $25 million per fiscal year.
- Potential strain on national park resources and infrastructure due to increased visitation.
- Possible administrative challenges in coordinating the program across multiple federal agencies.
- Risk that the program may not effectively reach all intended beneficiaries, despite targeted outreach efforts.
- Limited scope of the program, focusing primarily on fifth graders, which may exclude other age groups from benefiting.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution (Preamble), which allows Congress to enact laws that promote the well-being of the population. The Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2) grants Congress the power to manage and regulate federal lands, which is relevant to the program's access to national parks. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).