WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Tom Osborne (NE-03) is pleased to announce that the House of Representatives approved the Federal Youth Coordination Act today. This legislation to establish the Federal Youth Development Council for federal programs that serve youth was included in H.R. 6197, the Older Americans Act Amendments of 2006.

“The federal government has a broad array of programs that aim to improve the lives of our young people. Unfortunately, some of these programs have overlapping goals, resulting in duplicative use of limited federal funds to help young Americans. Today, the House has made life better for young people by passing the Federal Youth Coordination Act and maximizing the federal investment in them,” said Rep. Osborne.

The Federal Youth Coordination Act builds on several recommendations made by the White House Task Force on Disadvantaged Youth. Describing the current federal response as “convoluted and complex,” the White House Task Force identified a number of goals and changes that, if implemented, would help to better coordinate the hundreds of programs across 12 federal departments that serve youth. The Federal Youth Development Council will evaluate, coordinate, and improve federal youth serving programs and hold federal agencies accountable for achieving results.

A number of organizations consulted in the development of this legislation, which has been endorsed by over 250 organizations. Praising the organizations for their efforts, Rep. Osborne said, “I applaud all of the organizations that have been involved for their commitment to improving the lives of our nation’s young people.” The organizations include National Collaboration for Youth, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Campfire USA, Volunteers of America, YMCA of the USA, Forum for Youth Investment, Youth Service America, and America's Promise - The Alliance for Youth. 

H.R. 6197 now awaits consideration by the Senate.

###