Mason Passes Bicameral Bill Promoting Adolescent Health and Wellness

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Working to promote the health and wellness of young children, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, successfully passed a bicameral measure to create a commission to expand youth participation in sports throughout the state, while ultimately uplifting children who may not have access to community based sports prior.

“Playing sports is such a positive experience for so many kids. It teaches them new skills, the importance of both teamwork and individualism, and helps our kids turn into confident adults,” said Mason. “But many communities across the state simply don’t have the resources to support these extracurriculars. This commission aims to study how we can promote and increase access to youth sports and youth sports programs, especially for lower-income neighborhoods and children who live with disabilities who may not have the same accommodations as larger towns.”

House Bill 2418 creates the Commission on Youth Sports Act with the goal of increasing equitable and safe access for children in youth sports. The commission will evaluate the state's capacity to support youth in sports through several key initiatives, including conducting workshops, fostering the inclusion of individuals with disabilities, and increasing participation among historically disadvantaged communities that currently lack access to local youth sports programs.

“Sports can positively change children’s physical and mental health while promoting life-long habits,” said Mason. “The earlier children are exposed to the fun, social, and challenging aspects of sports, the more benefits they receive later on in life.”

The bill received unanimous support in the House chamber last month and recently passed favorably on the Senate floor. It now awaits the governor's signature for final consideration.