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S 459

Youth in Government

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Elliott

S 459 - Youth in Government OverviewBill Number: S 459 Title: Youth in Government Status: Adopted Introduced: February 06, 2025 Purpose and IntentThe purpose of S 459, the Youth

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Bill Summary · S 459

S 459 - Youth in Government

Overview

Bill Number: S 459
Title: Youth in Government
Status: Adopted
Introduced: February 06, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The purpose of S 459, the Youth in Government resolution, is to encourage greater civic engagement and participation among young people in the legislative process. The resolution recognizes that youth perspectives are critical to shaping effective public policy, and aims to provide more opportunities for students and young adults to get involved in government at the state and local levels.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a "Youth in Government" program to connect high school and college students with state legislators and government officials
  • Requires state education departments to develop curriculum and extracurricular activities focused on civics, government, and the legislative process
  • Provides funding for schools to organize student field trips to state capitols and local government offices
  • Mandates that state legislatures hold at least one public hearing per year specifically dedicated to hearing from youth constituents
  • Creates a competitive grant program to support the creation of student-run government clubs and mock legislature programs

Affected Parties and Impacts

The primary beneficiaries of this resolution will be students and young people between the ages of 14-24. By increasing access to hands-on civic education and direct engagement with government, the goal is to foster a greater sense of political efficacy and encourage more youth to pursue careers in public service.

State and local governments will also be impacted, as they will be required to dedicate resources towards youth outreach and engagement initiatives. However, the long-term benefits of having a more civically-engaged younger generation could lead to improved policymaking and stronger democratic institutions.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

S 459 was adopted by the Senate on March 15, 2025 with bipartisan support. The resolution now moves to the House, where it is expected to pass and be signed into law by the President. Once enacted, state governments will have 12 months to establish their "Youth in Government" programs and begin implementation.

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

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