Young introduces legislation supporting agricultural youth programs like 4-H

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Todd Young and Chris Coons introduced the Youth Lead Act to support agricultural youth programs, including 4-H and FFA, in rural communities.

The bipartisan bill would reauthorize grants for Girl Scouts of the United States of America, the Boy Scouts of America, the National 4-H Council and the National FFA Organization to expand the programs carried about by these organizations to rural communities and small towns.

“Our bipartisan bill will help ensure young leaders in Indiana and across the country can continue to participate in the educational opportunities and hands-on experiences provided by agricultural youth programs,” said Young, R-Ind.

Organizations like Scouting America, FFA and 4-H provide critical opportunities for young people to find mentors and learn life skills, said Coons, D-Del.

Sens. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va.; Angus King, I-Maine; Pete Ricketts, R-Neb.; John Hickenlooper, D-Colo.; Mike Braun, R-Ind.; Jon Tester, D-Mont.; Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn.; and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., also cosponsored the legislation.

The Youth Lead Act is also endorsed by the National FFA Organization and the National 4-H Council.

“Their commitment, along with the commitment of their colleagues who have signed onto the bill, shows the value that the U.S. Senate puts toward youth development,” said National FFA Advisor Travis Park.

“We hope this legislation will be included in the final versions of the farm bill conversations and that the grant program receives consideration through the appropriations process.”

“The Youth Lead Act of 2024 represents an investment in the future of our nation’s youth,” said Jill Bramble, National 4-H Council president and CEO.

“This legislation would enable Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program to expand experiences for all youth to develop the skills they need to succeed in work and in life.”

U.S. Reps. Don Bacon, R-Neb.; Tracy Mann, R-Kan.; and Jimmy Panetta, D-Calif., introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.