S.1419 - Youth Sports Facilities Act of 2024 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Youth Sports Facilities Act of 2024 (S.1419) amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to include youth sports facilities as eligible for certain grants. The bill aims to address health impacts of sedentary lifestyles, benefit rural communities, and support economic development through youth sports. It prioritizes facilities serving low-income families and communities with high rates of opioid use or community violence.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase funding for youth sports facilities, particularly in underserved areas. It could lead to improved access to recreational spaces and promote healthier lifestyles for children. The act may also spur economic development in communities lacking such facilities.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to recreational facilities for children, especially in low-income and rural areas.
- Potential improvement in physical and mental health by addressing sedentary lifestyles and obesity.
- Economic development through job creation related to the construction and operation of youth sports facilities.
- Support for communities struggling with opioid use disorders and community violence by providing positive outlets for youth.
- Potential for increased community engagement and social cohesion.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for misuse of funds if projects are not properly vetted or managed.
- Risk of prioritizing sports facilities over other essential community needs.
- Possible inequitable distribution of resources if certain communities are favored over others.
- Limited impact if the funding is insufficient to address the underlying issues of poverty and lack of opportunity.
- Potential for increased local taxes or fees to support the facilities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It promotes the well-being of children and communities, which can be interpreted as furthering the general welfare. The spending provisions would need to be authorized under Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8).
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).