U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) on Monday announced new federal action to lower the cost of youth sports and boost participation, including bipartisan legislation to expand tax credits for families to use on sports-related expenses.
Last year, the average U.S. family spent $1,016 on their child’s primary sport, a 46% increase since 2019. Gottheimer also noted that President Trump’s proposed budget would slash $12 billion in federal funding for schools, forcing districts to make tough choices that could put after-school programs — including sports — on the chopping block.
The bipartisan Promoting Lifelong Activity for Youth Act, or PLAY Act, is being led by Gottheimer and Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-10). The measure would allow parents to use the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit for expenses tied to youth sports and physical activities, boost the maximum contribution per household, and create a federal grant program to support recreational sports leagues and nonprofit organizations.
“Every kid in Jersey who wants to should have the opportunity to write their own success story playing sports. But here’s the challenge: youth sports have become more and more expensive, and for many families, simply unaffordable. The actions I’m announcing today are a win-win-win for kids, parents, and town rec leagues,” said Gottheimer, a member of the bipartisan Youth Sports Caucus. “It may be competitive, but there is nothing partisan about rec sports. So many of us played rec sports growing up. I have no doubt that kids in New Milford, and across our state and country, will create memories that will last a lifetime.”
Under the proposal, families would be able to use the tax credit for up to $2,000 in youth sports expenses. The bill would raise the overall credit to $4,000 for one child and $7,000 for two or more. The PLAY Act would also allow parents to pay for league registration fees and equipment with pre-tax dollars.
In addition, Gottheimer said he is sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Education warning how the Administration’s proposed spending cuts could harm school sports. He urged the department to safeguard programs vital to children’s growth both physically and academically.
The push comes amid growing concerns about affordability. A 2022 study found nearly 60% of families say youth sports are a financial strain. According to the CDC, higher activity levels are linked to better academic performance, and participation in youth team sports has been associated with lower rates of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Gottheimer has also joined the bipartisan Congressional Caucus on Youth Sports to expand access to facilities, increase funding for community programs, and advance policies supporting young athletes.
