S.284 - Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.284, the Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act, seeks to reauthorize the Congressional Award Act by amending Section 108 to extend the termination date from October 1, 2023, to October 1, 2028. It also modifies Section 102 regarding the specifications of the medals awarded under the program. The bill was introduced in the Senate on January 28, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is the continuation of the Congressional Award Program for another five years. This ensures that young people can continue to participate in activities related to volunteer public service, personal development, physical fitness, and exploration. The changes to medal specifications may result in cost savings or changes in the aesthetic design of the awards.
Potential Benefits
- Continued recognition for young people's achievements in volunteer service, personal development, and physical fitness.
- Encouragement of youth engagement in community service and personal growth.
- Potential cost savings from changes in medal specifications.
- Provides a framework for recognizing and rewarding youth achievements at a national level.
- Supports the development of well-rounded and engaged citizens.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for continued expenditure of government funds on the program.
- The changes to medal specifications could diminish the perceived value of the award.
- Limited direct impact on broader societal issues.
- The program may not reach all segments of the youth population equally.
- Administrative overhead associated with managing the program.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause of the Preamble, as it aims to promote the development and recognition of young citizens. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to spend for the general welfare. The reauthorization 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).