Press Releases

Washington, D.C. - 4/21/2025…  Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17) joined Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Don Davis (NC-01), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), and David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the bipartisan Youth Lead Act last week.

This bill allows the Secretary of Agriculture to provide grants to support the operations of Future Farmers of America (FFA), 4-H, and the Scouts. These are preeminent youth leadership organizations in the United States with approximately eight million youth taking part.  Participation in these organizations helps children make lifelong friendships and learn leadership and life skills. The grant program authorizes $5 million annually from 2024 to 2028. 

“In the Hudson Valley, youth organizations like the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H, and FFA have long helped shape the next generation of leaders,  teaching kids the value of service, responsibility, and community. The Youth Lead Act will ensure that young people in rural towns and small communities get the opportunity to grow and thrive. I’m proud to support the effort to expand access to these formative youth programs in New York state and nationwide,” said Congressman Mike Lawler. 

“Every year, I meet with youth involved in FFA, 4-H, and Scouts,” said Congressman Don Bacon. “They are always impressive and possess a strong work ethic, valuable life skills, and a commitment to teamwork. Ensuring our youth can participate in these great organizations helps to secure our country’s future leadership in agriculture and numerous other industries.”

“As an Eagle Scout, I know firsthand the transformative impact youth organizations have – instilling discipline, purpose, and a deep commitment to service. The Youth Lead Act strengthens that impact by expanding access to proven programs like the Scouts, 4-H, and FFA. When we equip young people with these lifelong values and leadership skills, we’re not just preparing them for success – we’re preparing our nation for a stronger future,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick.

“Youth organizations like FFA, 4-H Council, and Scouting play a vital role in developing the leaders and citizens of tomorrow,” said Congressman Jimmy Panetta.  “By expanding federal investments in these programs, we can support their critical work in equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in their careers and contribute to their communities. Congress must continue to invest in the next generation, and I’m proud to co-lead this effort to shape a brighter future.”

“Growing up, I learned how important it is to work hard, be part of a team, and help others—and that’s exactly what programs like FFA, 4-H, and the Scouts teach,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “The Youth Lead Act helps support these awesome groups so more kids in our community can build confidence, learn new skills, and become great leaders. When we believe in our young people, we believe in a brighter future for everyone.”

“As someone who grew up in a rural town, I know firsthand the positive impact youth organizations can have on our community,” said Congressman David Valadao. “From teaching leadership skills to providing volunteer opportunities, programs like Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H, and FFA are an important outlet for young people in rural America. I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to ensure our youth can participate in these programs no matter where they live.”

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Full text of the bill can be found HERE.