This legislation amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, explicitly making youth sports facilities eligible for federal grants. It expands the types of projects that can receive funding to include those focused on improving access to recreational spaces and addressing public health concerns like sedentary lifestyles and obesity. The bill introduces new criteria for grant eligibility, prioritizing projects that benefit highly rural communities and primarily serve children from low-income families in rural or underserved areas , especially those lacking access to facilities or living in communities with high rates of opioid use or violence. Furthermore, it aims to support youth sports and recreation to spur economic development and promote job creation through new facilities and adjacent businesses.
This legislation amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, explicitly making youth sports facilities eligible for federal grants. It expands the types of projects that can receive funding to include those focused on improving access to recreational spaces and addressing public health concerns like sedentary lifestyles and obesity. The bill introduces new criteria for grant eligibility, prioritizing projects that benefit highly rural communities and primarily serve children from low-income families in rural or underserved areas , especially those lacking access to facilities or living in communities with high rates of opioid use or violence. Furthermore, it aims to support youth sports and recreation to spur economic development and promote job creation through new facilities and adjacent businesses.