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HB 839

Expand youth access to soccer

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ismail Mohamed

The bill aims to broaden youth soccer participation in Ohio by expanding programs and providing state funding to support access and related activities.

Referred to committee
#economicdevelopment
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 839

Summary: House Bill 839 (132nd? No, 136th General Assembly) – Ohio

Note: This summary reflects the information provided in the bill indication. HB 839 is titled “Expand youth access to soccer” and includes an appropriation component. The bill text is listed as “As Introduced,” meaning the details reflect the initial filing rather than enacted law.

1) Purpose and Intent

  • Primary aim: Expand access to soccer for youth across the state of Ohio.
  • The bill also includes a request for an appropriation, indicating a financial investment to support its goals (likely for programs, facilities, equipment, or administration related to youth soccer).
  • Overall goal: Increase participation in soccer among Ohio youth and remove barriers to access.

2) Key Provisions and Changes

  • Explicit purpose: Expand youth access to soccer; the bill’s long title signals a focus on widening participation.
  • Appropriation: The bill requests or provides funding to support the expansion efforts (exact amounts and allocations would appear in the full text; the title indicates a financial component).
  • Administrative/Programmatic elements (as commonly included in expansion bills):
    • Potential creation or support of programs (e.g., partnerships with schools, community organizations, youth leagues).
    • Possible funding for equipment, facilities, coaching development, or outreach.
    • Possible grant or reimbursement mechanisms to subsidize participation for underserved communities.
  • Substantive changes: The summary does not specify new rules or regulatory changes; the emphasis is on expanding access and providing funding. Detailed provisions (eligible organizations, grant criteria, match requirements, reporting) would be in the full text.

3) Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Youths: Primary beneficiaries—greater access to soccer opportunities, potentially reduced cost barriers.
  • Local communities and youth soccer organizations: May receive state funds, grants, or program support.
  • Schools, parks and recreation departments, and community centers: Potential partners in program delivery.
  • Coaches and volunteers: Possible increases in training opportunities and funding for development.
  • State government: Allocates funds and oversees administration of the program (as introduced, with an appropriation).

4) Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Status: Introduced in the Ohio House on April 30, 2026; the action history indicates the bill is in the early stages of the legislative process.
  • Next steps: If advanced, the bill would typically go to committee for hearings, possible amendments, and then votes by the House and Senate.
  • Governor: If passed by both chambers, it would be sent to the Governor for signature or veto. The exact timetable depends on legislative calendars and committee actions.

5) Additional Observations

  • Subject area listed: Economic Development. This suggests the bill frames expanded access to soccer as an economic or community development initiative, possibly prioritizing youth engagement, health, and local sports industry support.
  • Sponsor: Ismail Mohamed (D), House District 3, with a co-sponsor noted. The sponsor information can inform potential advocacy or interest group involvement.

Bottom line

HB 839 seeks to broaden participation in youth soccer across Ohio through programmatic expansion and accompanying state funding. The introduced version signals a focus on accessibility and a financial appropriation to support these efforts. The exact details—such as eligible programs, funding amounts, and reporting requirements—will be clarified as the bill moves through committee and floor action.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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