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Standard Summary
Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs
The YOUNG Act of 2025 directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a grant program that provides funding and technical assistance to schools, nonprofits, universities, and government agencies to run youth biodiversity monitoring projects. These projects would engage young people in hands-on wildlife and ecosystem monitoring using cutting-edge technologies such as environmental DNA analysis, drones, camera traps, and artificial intelligence. The program aims to educate students about advanced scientific methods while collecting valuable biodiversity data, with special emphasis on reaching underserved communities. The bill authorizes $1 million annually from 2026 through 2032 for this initiative.
Key Points
- 1Grant Program Establishment: The Secretary of Commerce (through the Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere) must create a competitive grant program to fund youth biodiversity monitoring projects across the country.
- 2Eligible Recipients: Grants can be awarded to nonprofits, K-12 schools, colleges and universities, state/local governments, and Tribal governments to carry out these projects.
- 3Allowable Uses of Funds: Grant money can be used for supplies, transportation, outreach, scientific permits/licenses, and other project-related expenses determined appropriate by the Secretary.
- 4Priority for Underserved Communities: The Secretary must prioritize grant applications from organizations proposing projects that serve underserved populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and communities affected by persistent poverty.
- 5Reporting and Oversight: The Secretary must report to Congress within 2 years on grant recipients, amounts awarded, how funds were used, and the number of youth participants in the program.
Impact Areas
Youth Education: Students gain hands-on experience with advanced scientific technologies and learn about wildlife science, marine science, and conservation.Scientific Research: Projects contribute to biodiversity monitoring and data collection that supports wildlife management and conservation efforts.Equity and Access: Special focus on underserved communities helps expand STEM education opportunities to populations historically underrepresented in science fields.Federal Agencies: The U.S. Geological Survey and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service coordinate with the Commerce Department to support program implementation.
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