I will soon introduce legislation making it easier for families to get their students involved in after-school programming.
 
As a proud parent, I understand the costs associated with raising young children. We want our kids to play all their favorite sports, learn an instrument, and pursue their passions through outside activities like scouting. We deeply desire them to grow into responsible, well-rounded, and civically engaged young adults.
 
Unfortunately, for many parents, financial limitations force them to choose between feeding their family and paying the utility bills or signing up their child for dance lessons, cheerleading, karate, or the soccer team. It’s a decision no parent should have to make as cost should never inhibit an eager student from pursuing their dreams, developing a skill, or forming a new interest through a peer activity.
 
To that end, I am proposing legislation to establish a tax credit for parents of eligible school-age children to help offset the growing costs of participation in youth activities. The credit aims to reduce the financial burden of equipment purchases, travel expenses, and participation fees for a wide range of endeavors including performances, sports competitions, lessons and other organized activities.
 
Please consider joining me in co-sponsoring this proposal to increase accessibility to all after-school programs and help make each future generation of Pennsylvanians smarter, healthier, and more well-rounded than the last.