Amended IN Assembly March 28, 2025 Amended IN Assembly March 17, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 749Introduced by Assembly Member McKinnorFebruary 18, 2025 An act to add and repeal Article 2.8 (commencing with Section 124250) of Chapter 4 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to state government. youth sports.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 749, as amended, McKinnor. State government: California Department of Youth Sports: study. Youth Sports for All Act.Existing law authorizes public and private secondary schools to participate in interscholastic sports, and authorizes schools to enter into associations or consortia to enact and enforce rules relating to eligibility for, and participation in, these activities. Existing law recognizes the California Interscholastic Federation to be a voluntary organization that consists of school and school-related personnel with responsibility for administering interscholastic athletic activities in secondary schools.Existing law provides various programs for youth and adolescent health, including requiring a youth sports organization that elects to offer an athletic program to ensure athletes have access to an automated external defibrillator during official practice and regulating youth football. Existing law also authorizes a community youth athletic program to request state and federal level criminal history information for volunteer or hired coach candidates.This bill bill, the Youth Sports for All Act, would require the Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, to, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study on the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports, as provided. The bill would require the commission to, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study to the Legislature and the Governor. The bill would make its provisions contingent upon an appropriation by the Legislature or upon the California Health and Human Services Agency obtaining sufficient funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources. The bill would repeal its provisions on January 1, 2029.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) The lack of standards and certification for coaching in youth sports have resulted in an unregulated youth sports coaching landscape. There is currently no state-level standardization or required certification for coaches, leading to inconsistency in training, safety, and quality in youth sports.(b) The unregulated coaching landscape poses health and safety risks. Untrained or poorly trained coaches may not be equipped to handle the needs of diverse youth, promote positive sports experiences, and ensure safety.(c) The fragmented community youth sports system is currently made up of disjointed networks with no single unified system to coordinate or oversee community-based youth sports across regions or organizations, creating inefficiencies and inconsistencies in quality.(d) This fragmented system has resulted in the duplication of efforts. Multiple organizations work in overlapping areas, causing confusion and misallocation of resources.(e)The Physical Education Model Content Standards for California Public Schools last updated in 2006, do not reflect current physical education practices or adequately address the broad needs of todays youth. Updated standards will support schools and sports programs to improve their structure for childrens physical development, mental health, and overall well-being.(f)Updating the physical education model content standards is especially critical when considering the diversity of student needs due to disabilities, adverse childhood experiences, and cultural considerations. (g)(e) The inadequate funding of school-based and community-based sports fails to meet the growing demand for quality sports and fitness opportunities, particularly when considering the physical and mental health benefits of organized activity.(h)School-based physical education and after school programs are underfunded and recess is often cut short or underfunded. (i)(f) The pay-to-play model for youth sports has become increasingly exclusionary, driven by a win-at-all-cost mentality that is creating undue stress and anxiety for participants and encouraging overspecialization at an early age, increasing injury risk. In addition, excessive travel, fees, and equipment costs create financial barriers for many families, leaving millions of children unable to participate in organized youth sports.(j)(g) Youth sports provide numerous benefits, including improved physical and mental health, academic success, and social development. They provide the opportunity to develop resilience and teamwork as well as other social skills that help make youth athletes life ready. Despite these benefits, participation rates vary significantly across racial and socioeconomic lines.(k)(h) The 2024 Play Equity Report, commissioned by the LA84 Foundation, highlights stark disparities, with Black and Latino youth participation in structured sports as low as 47 percent and 45 percent, respectively, compared to 59 percent for White youth. Barriers include cost, lack of facilities, and limited programming in underserved communities.(l)(i) A centralized entity, such as a California department or commission of youth sports, can be an essential entity for creating an integrated, equitable, and sustainable framework for youth sports. Through coordinated efforts, updated standards, investment, and a focus on reducing financial barriers, California can ensure all children have the opportunity to access and engage in sports and experience its lifelong physical, mental, and academic benefits.(m)(j) Models from other countries, where sports ministries successfully coordinate national sports policies, provide valuable examples.(n)(k) A centralized entity could address inequities by promoting inclusive, accessible, and affordable youth sports programs and coaching education.SEC. 2. Article 2.8 (commencing with Section 124250) is added to Chapter 4 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code, to read: Article 2.8. YOUTH SPORTS FOR ALL ACT124250. This article shall be known, and may be cited, as the Youth Sports for All Act.124251. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:(a) Centralized entity means a department, commission, board, council, or their equivalent.(b) Commission means the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity established and convened pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 124252.(c) Youth sports has the same meaning as youth sports organization as defined in Section 124235.124252. (a) (1) The Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, secretary, shall, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study to review the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(2) The commission shall be composed of all of the following:(A) 10 Seven members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency, as follows:(i)One member who represents a statewide teachers association.(ii)One member who represents a statewide administrators association.(iii)(i) One member who represents a statewide parents association.(iv)(ii) One member who represents youth athletes.(v)(iii) One member from an institution of higher education with relevant academic knowledge of youth sports, youth development, physical education, or equivalent fields of study.(vi)(iv) One member from an organization with relevant expertise in youth mental health.(vii)(v) One member from an organization that represents publicly funded youth sports programs.(viii)(vi) One member from a community-based, sports-based youth development program.(ix)One member with relevant experience providing instruction in physical education.(x)One additional member.(B)One member appointed by the State Department of Education.(C)(vii) One member who represents a statewide organization that advocates for Californians with disabilities.(B) One member appointed by the Governors Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being.(D)(C) One member appointed by the Governor.(E)(D) One member appointed by the Play Equity Fund.(F)(E) One member appointed by the Positive Coaching Alliance.(G)(F) One member appointed by Playworks.(H)(G) One member appointed by Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport.(I)(H) One member appointed by the California Interscholastic Federation.(J)(I) One member appointed by a statewide organization that represents municipalities and local governments that operate youth sports.(K)(J) One or more additional members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency as needed to support the work of the commission.(b) The commission shall be cochaired by one of the members appointed by the agency pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a) and the member appointed by the Play Equity Fund pursuant to subparagraph (E) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a).124254. (a) The commission shall conduct a study of issues in youth sports that includes all of the following:(1) An assessment of the need and potential for a centralized entity to improve access to and involvement in sports for all youth, regardless of race, income, or geographic location, that addresses issues in youth sports, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Disparities in youth sports programming quality and availability.(B) How to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for youth sports.(C) How to increase and integrate regular physical activity and sports into elementary and secondary education through schoolday programming, the daily lives of youth, including, but not limited to, through after school programs, programs and community-based organizations.(D) How to implement statewide coaching certification requirements to ensure quality training for all coaches in youth sports.(E) How to update curriculum frameworks to include improve training and strategies for youth development, safety protocols, equity and inclusion, and sport-specific knowledge. knowledge across the youth sports landscape.(F) How to update the current physical education model content standards and frameworks to ensure that they reflect best educational and promote practices and safety guidelines, and include protocols, including support for diverse forms of physical activity to increase equity and access to youth sports and play.(G) How to better integrate structured sports and team-building activities into physical education curricula. the daily lives of youth.(H) How to create a mechanism for sustainable and adequate state investment in school-based physical education programs and recess and after school youth sports to improve accessibility, infrastructure, and overall quality.(I) How to increase state investment in the expansion of accessible, free, or low-cost after school and community-based youth sports programs that complement academic and recreational goals.(J) How to create a mechanism for state and local funding initiatives that reduce or eliminate financial barriers to youth sports participation.(2) An evaluation of and recommendations for the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a centralized entity, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) A determination of the appropriate levels of oversight of relevant laws and regulations, including safety and licensing requirements for coaches and staff of youth sports.(B) A determination of which youth sports would benefit from support and regulation from a centralized entity.(C) Development and administration of statewide licensing and safety requirements.(D) Development and administration of statewide youth sports access and quality standards.(E) Development of strategies and best practices to improve access and equity to competitive and noncompetitive youth sports and play.(F) Coordination of relevant state state, local, and federal entities to improve access and equity in youth sports programs, including updating physical education model content standards, frameworks, and curricula. sharing best practices and resources.(G) Identifying duplication of efforts and inefficiencies among state and local entities and youth sports programs.(H) Identifying data gaps and development of data collection and reporting requirements.(3) A review of and recommendations for both of the following:(A) The costs of creating and sustaining a centralized entity.(B) Potential funding sources, including state, federal, private, and philanthropic sources.(b) In conducting the study, the commission shall analyze models of centralized entities in other states and countries that are charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(c) The California Health and Human Services Agency may enter into a contract with an external entity, including an institution of higher education or a nonprofit organization with relevant expertise, to conduct the study required by this section.(d) Before finalizing the study and before submission pursuant to subdivision (e), the commission shall publically present the study and provide an opportunity for public feedback.(e) (1) The commission shall, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study conducted pursuant to this section to the Legislature and the Governor.(2) A report to be submitted to the Legislature pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.124256. (a) The implementation of this article is contingent upon an either of the following:(1) An appropriation for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(2) Sufficient funds being obtained by the California Health and Human Services Agency from federal, non-profit, or private sources for the purposes of implementing this article.(b) The California Health and Human Services Agency may use funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources to augment an appropriation made to implement this article. (b)(c) This article shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.
Amended IN Assembly March 28, 2025 Amended IN Assembly March 17, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 749Introduced by Assembly Member McKinnorFebruary 18, 2025 An act to add and repeal Article 2.8 (commencing with Section 124250) of Chapter 4 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to state government. youth sports.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 749, as amended, McKinnor. State government: California Department of Youth Sports: study. Youth Sports for All Act.Existing law authorizes public and private secondary schools to participate in interscholastic sports, and authorizes schools to enter into associations or consortia to enact and enforce rules relating to eligibility for, and participation in, these activities. Existing law recognizes the California Interscholastic Federation to be a voluntary organization that consists of school and school-related personnel with responsibility for administering interscholastic athletic activities in secondary schools.Existing law provides various programs for youth and adolescent health, including requiring a youth sports organization that elects to offer an athletic program to ensure athletes have access to an automated external defibrillator during official practice and regulating youth football. Existing law also authorizes a community youth athletic program to request state and federal level criminal history information for volunteer or hired coach candidates.This bill bill, the Youth Sports for All Act, would require the Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, to, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study on the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports, as provided. The bill would require the commission to, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study to the Legislature and the Governor. The bill would make its provisions contingent upon an appropriation by the Legislature or upon the California Health and Human Services Agency obtaining sufficient funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources. The bill would repeal its provisions on January 1, 2029.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO
Amended IN Assembly March 28, 2025 Amended IN Assembly March 17, 2025
Amended IN Assembly March 28, 2025
Amended IN Assembly March 17, 2025
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION
Assembly Bill
No. 749
Introduced by Assembly Member McKinnorFebruary 18, 2025
Introduced by Assembly Member McKinnor
February 18, 2025
An act to add and repeal Article 2.8 (commencing with Section 124250) of Chapter 4 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to state government. youth sports.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
AB 749, as amended, McKinnor. State government: California Department of Youth Sports: study. Youth Sports for All Act.
Existing law authorizes public and private secondary schools to participate in interscholastic sports, and authorizes schools to enter into associations or consortia to enact and enforce rules relating to eligibility for, and participation in, these activities. Existing law recognizes the California Interscholastic Federation to be a voluntary organization that consists of school and school-related personnel with responsibility for administering interscholastic athletic activities in secondary schools.Existing law provides various programs for youth and adolescent health, including requiring a youth sports organization that elects to offer an athletic program to ensure athletes have access to an automated external defibrillator during official practice and regulating youth football. Existing law also authorizes a community youth athletic program to request state and federal level criminal history information for volunteer or hired coach candidates.This bill bill, the Youth Sports for All Act, would require the Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, to, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study on the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports, as provided. The bill would require the commission to, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study to the Legislature and the Governor. The bill would make its provisions contingent upon an appropriation by the Legislature or upon the California Health and Human Services Agency obtaining sufficient funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources. The bill would repeal its provisions on January 1, 2029.
Existing law authorizes public and private secondary schools to participate in interscholastic sports, and authorizes schools to enter into associations or consortia to enact and enforce rules relating to eligibility for, and participation in, these activities. Existing law recognizes the California Interscholastic Federation to be a voluntary organization that consists of school and school-related personnel with responsibility for administering interscholastic athletic activities in secondary schools.
Existing law provides various programs for youth and adolescent health, including requiring a youth sports organization that elects to offer an athletic program to ensure athletes have access to an automated external defibrillator during official practice and regulating youth football. Existing law also authorizes a community youth athletic program to request state and federal level criminal history information for volunteer or hired coach candidates.
This bill bill, the Youth Sports for All Act, would require the Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, to, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study on the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports, as provided. The bill would require the commission to, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study to the Legislature and the Governor. The bill would make its provisions contingent upon an appropriation by the Legislature or upon the California Health and Human Services Agency obtaining sufficient funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources. The bill would repeal its provisions on January 1, 2029.
## Digest Key
## Bill Text
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) The lack of standards and certification for coaching in youth sports have resulted in an unregulated youth sports coaching landscape. There is currently no state-level standardization or required certification for coaches, leading to inconsistency in training, safety, and quality in youth sports.(b) The unregulated coaching landscape poses health and safety risks. Untrained or poorly trained coaches may not be equipped to handle the needs of diverse youth, promote positive sports experiences, and ensure safety.(c) The fragmented community youth sports system is currently made up of disjointed networks with no single unified system to coordinate or oversee community-based youth sports across regions or organizations, creating inefficiencies and inconsistencies in quality.(d) This fragmented system has resulted in the duplication of efforts. Multiple organizations work in overlapping areas, causing confusion and misallocation of resources.(e)The Physical Education Model Content Standards for California Public Schools last updated in 2006, do not reflect current physical education practices or adequately address the broad needs of todays youth. Updated standards will support schools and sports programs to improve their structure for childrens physical development, mental health, and overall well-being.(f)Updating the physical education model content standards is especially critical when considering the diversity of student needs due to disabilities, adverse childhood experiences, and cultural considerations. (g)(e) The inadequate funding of school-based and community-based sports fails to meet the growing demand for quality sports and fitness opportunities, particularly when considering the physical and mental health benefits of organized activity.(h)School-based physical education and after school programs are underfunded and recess is often cut short or underfunded. (i)(f) The pay-to-play model for youth sports has become increasingly exclusionary, driven by a win-at-all-cost mentality that is creating undue stress and anxiety for participants and encouraging overspecialization at an early age, increasing injury risk. In addition, excessive travel, fees, and equipment costs create financial barriers for many families, leaving millions of children unable to participate in organized youth sports.(j)(g) Youth sports provide numerous benefits, including improved physical and mental health, academic success, and social development. They provide the opportunity to develop resilience and teamwork as well as other social skills that help make youth athletes life ready. Despite these benefits, participation rates vary significantly across racial and socioeconomic lines.(k)(h) The 2024 Play Equity Report, commissioned by the LA84 Foundation, highlights stark disparities, with Black and Latino youth participation in structured sports as low as 47 percent and 45 percent, respectively, compared to 59 percent for White youth. Barriers include cost, lack of facilities, and limited programming in underserved communities.(l)(i) A centralized entity, such as a California department or commission of youth sports, can be an essential entity for creating an integrated, equitable, and sustainable framework for youth sports. Through coordinated efforts, updated standards, investment, and a focus on reducing financial barriers, California can ensure all children have the opportunity to access and engage in sports and experience its lifelong physical, mental, and academic benefits.(m)(j) Models from other countries, where sports ministries successfully coordinate national sports policies, provide valuable examples.(n)(k) A centralized entity could address inequities by promoting inclusive, accessible, and affordable youth sports programs and coaching education.SEC. 2. Article 2.8 (commencing with Section 124250) is added to Chapter 4 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code, to read: Article 2.8. YOUTH SPORTS FOR ALL ACT124250. This article shall be known, and may be cited, as the Youth Sports for All Act.124251. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:(a) Centralized entity means a department, commission, board, council, or their equivalent.(b) Commission means the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity established and convened pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 124252.(c) Youth sports has the same meaning as youth sports organization as defined in Section 124235.124252. (a) (1) The Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, secretary, shall, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study to review the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(2) The commission shall be composed of all of the following:(A) 10 Seven members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency, as follows:(i)One member who represents a statewide teachers association.(ii)One member who represents a statewide administrators association.(iii)(i) One member who represents a statewide parents association.(iv)(ii) One member who represents youth athletes.(v)(iii) One member from an institution of higher education with relevant academic knowledge of youth sports, youth development, physical education, or equivalent fields of study.(vi)(iv) One member from an organization with relevant expertise in youth mental health.(vii)(v) One member from an organization that represents publicly funded youth sports programs.(viii)(vi) One member from a community-based, sports-based youth development program.(ix)One member with relevant experience providing instruction in physical education.(x)One additional member.(B)One member appointed by the State Department of Education.(C)(vii) One member who represents a statewide organization that advocates for Californians with disabilities.(B) One member appointed by the Governors Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being.(D)(C) One member appointed by the Governor.(E)(D) One member appointed by the Play Equity Fund.(F)(E) One member appointed by the Positive Coaching Alliance.(G)(F) One member appointed by Playworks.(H)(G) One member appointed by Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport.(I)(H) One member appointed by the California Interscholastic Federation.(J)(I) One member appointed by a statewide organization that represents municipalities and local governments that operate youth sports.(K)(J) One or more additional members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency as needed to support the work of the commission.(b) The commission shall be cochaired by one of the members appointed by the agency pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a) and the member appointed by the Play Equity Fund pursuant to subparagraph (E) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a).124254. (a) The commission shall conduct a study of issues in youth sports that includes all of the following:(1) An assessment of the need and potential for a centralized entity to improve access to and involvement in sports for all youth, regardless of race, income, or geographic location, that addresses issues in youth sports, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Disparities in youth sports programming quality and availability.(B) How to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for youth sports.(C) How to increase and integrate regular physical activity and sports into elementary and secondary education through schoolday programming, the daily lives of youth, including, but not limited to, through after school programs, programs and community-based organizations.(D) How to implement statewide coaching certification requirements to ensure quality training for all coaches in youth sports.(E) How to update curriculum frameworks to include improve training and strategies for youth development, safety protocols, equity and inclusion, and sport-specific knowledge. knowledge across the youth sports landscape.(F) How to update the current physical education model content standards and frameworks to ensure that they reflect best educational and promote practices and safety guidelines, and include protocols, including support for diverse forms of physical activity to increase equity and access to youth sports and play.(G) How to better integrate structured sports and team-building activities into physical education curricula. the daily lives of youth.(H) How to create a mechanism for sustainable and adequate state investment in school-based physical education programs and recess and after school youth sports to improve accessibility, infrastructure, and overall quality.(I) How to increase state investment in the expansion of accessible, free, or low-cost after school and community-based youth sports programs that complement academic and recreational goals.(J) How to create a mechanism for state and local funding initiatives that reduce or eliminate financial barriers to youth sports participation.(2) An evaluation of and recommendations for the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a centralized entity, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) A determination of the appropriate levels of oversight of relevant laws and regulations, including safety and licensing requirements for coaches and staff of youth sports.(B) A determination of which youth sports would benefit from support and regulation from a centralized entity.(C) Development and administration of statewide licensing and safety requirements.(D) Development and administration of statewide youth sports access and quality standards.(E) Development of strategies and best practices to improve access and equity to competitive and noncompetitive youth sports and play.(F) Coordination of relevant state state, local, and federal entities to improve access and equity in youth sports programs, including updating physical education model content standards, frameworks, and curricula. sharing best practices and resources.(G) Identifying duplication of efforts and inefficiencies among state and local entities and youth sports programs.(H) Identifying data gaps and development of data collection and reporting requirements.(3) A review of and recommendations for both of the following:(A) The costs of creating and sustaining a centralized entity.(B) Potential funding sources, including state, federal, private, and philanthropic sources.(b) In conducting the study, the commission shall analyze models of centralized entities in other states and countries that are charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(c) The California Health and Human Services Agency may enter into a contract with an external entity, including an institution of higher education or a nonprofit organization with relevant expertise, to conduct the study required by this section.(d) Before finalizing the study and before submission pursuant to subdivision (e), the commission shall publically present the study and provide an opportunity for public feedback.(e) (1) The commission shall, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study conducted pursuant to this section to the Legislature and the Governor.(2) A report to be submitted to the Legislature pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.124256. (a) The implementation of this article is contingent upon an either of the following:(1) An appropriation for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(2) Sufficient funds being obtained by the California Health and Human Services Agency from federal, non-profit, or private sources for the purposes of implementing this article.(b) The California Health and Human Services Agency may use funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources to augment an appropriation made to implement this article. (b)(c) This article shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) The lack of standards and certification for coaching in youth sports have resulted in an unregulated youth sports coaching landscape. There is currently no state-level standardization or required certification for coaches, leading to inconsistency in training, safety, and quality in youth sports.(b) The unregulated coaching landscape poses health and safety risks. Untrained or poorly trained coaches may not be equipped to handle the needs of diverse youth, promote positive sports experiences, and ensure safety.(c) The fragmented community youth sports system is currently made up of disjointed networks with no single unified system to coordinate or oversee community-based youth sports across regions or organizations, creating inefficiencies and inconsistencies in quality.(d) This fragmented system has resulted in the duplication of efforts. Multiple organizations work in overlapping areas, causing confusion and misallocation of resources.(e)The Physical Education Model Content Standards for California Public Schools last updated in 2006, do not reflect current physical education practices or adequately address the broad needs of todays youth. Updated standards will support schools and sports programs to improve their structure for childrens physical development, mental health, and overall well-being.(f)Updating the physical education model content standards is especially critical when considering the diversity of student needs due to disabilities, adverse childhood experiences, and cultural considerations. (g)(e) The inadequate funding of school-based and community-based sports fails to meet the growing demand for quality sports and fitness opportunities, particularly when considering the physical and mental health benefits of organized activity.(h)School-based physical education and after school programs are underfunded and recess is often cut short or underfunded. (i)(f) The pay-to-play model for youth sports has become increasingly exclusionary, driven by a win-at-all-cost mentality that is creating undue stress and anxiety for participants and encouraging overspecialization at an early age, increasing injury risk. In addition, excessive travel, fees, and equipment costs create financial barriers for many families, leaving millions of children unable to participate in organized youth sports.(j)(g) Youth sports provide numerous benefits, including improved physical and mental health, academic success, and social development. They provide the opportunity to develop resilience and teamwork as well as other social skills that help make youth athletes life ready. Despite these benefits, participation rates vary significantly across racial and socioeconomic lines.(k)(h) The 2024 Play Equity Report, commissioned by the LA84 Foundation, highlights stark disparities, with Black and Latino youth participation in structured sports as low as 47 percent and 45 percent, respectively, compared to 59 percent for White youth. Barriers include cost, lack of facilities, and limited programming in underserved communities.(l)(i) A centralized entity, such as a California department or commission of youth sports, can be an essential entity for creating an integrated, equitable, and sustainable framework for youth sports. Through coordinated efforts, updated standards, investment, and a focus on reducing financial barriers, California can ensure all children have the opportunity to access and engage in sports and experience its lifelong physical, mental, and academic benefits.(m)(j) Models from other countries, where sports ministries successfully coordinate national sports policies, provide valuable examples.(n)(k) A centralized entity could address inequities by promoting inclusive, accessible, and affordable youth sports programs and coaching education.
SECTION 1. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) The lack of standards and certification for coaching in youth sports have resulted in an unregulated youth sports coaching landscape. There is currently no state-level standardization or required certification for coaches, leading to inconsistency in training, safety, and quality in youth sports.(b) The unregulated coaching landscape poses health and safety risks. Untrained or poorly trained coaches may not be equipped to handle the needs of diverse youth, promote positive sports experiences, and ensure safety.(c) The fragmented community youth sports system is currently made up of disjointed networks with no single unified system to coordinate or oversee community-based youth sports across regions or organizations, creating inefficiencies and inconsistencies in quality.(d) This fragmented system has resulted in the duplication of efforts. Multiple organizations work in overlapping areas, causing confusion and misallocation of resources.(e)The Physical Education Model Content Standards for California Public Schools last updated in 2006, do not reflect current physical education practices or adequately address the broad needs of todays youth. Updated standards will support schools and sports programs to improve their structure for childrens physical development, mental health, and overall well-being.(f)Updating the physical education model content standards is especially critical when considering the diversity of student needs due to disabilities, adverse childhood experiences, and cultural considerations. (g)(e) The inadequate funding of school-based and community-based sports fails to meet the growing demand for quality sports and fitness opportunities, particularly when considering the physical and mental health benefits of organized activity.(h)School-based physical education and after school programs are underfunded and recess is often cut short or underfunded. (i)(f) The pay-to-play model for youth sports has become increasingly exclusionary, driven by a win-at-all-cost mentality that is creating undue stress and anxiety for participants and encouraging overspecialization at an early age, increasing injury risk. In addition, excessive travel, fees, and equipment costs create financial barriers for many families, leaving millions of children unable to participate in organized youth sports.(j)(g) Youth sports provide numerous benefits, including improved physical and mental health, academic success, and social development. They provide the opportunity to develop resilience and teamwork as well as other social skills that help make youth athletes life ready. Despite these benefits, participation rates vary significantly across racial and socioeconomic lines.(k)(h) The 2024 Play Equity Report, commissioned by the LA84 Foundation, highlights stark disparities, with Black and Latino youth participation in structured sports as low as 47 percent and 45 percent, respectively, compared to 59 percent for White youth. Barriers include cost, lack of facilities, and limited programming in underserved communities.(l)(i) A centralized entity, such as a California department or commission of youth sports, can be an essential entity for creating an integrated, equitable, and sustainable framework for youth sports. Through coordinated efforts, updated standards, investment, and a focus on reducing financial barriers, California can ensure all children have the opportunity to access and engage in sports and experience its lifelong physical, mental, and academic benefits.(m)(j) Models from other countries, where sports ministries successfully coordinate national sports policies, provide valuable examples.(n)(k) A centralized entity could address inequities by promoting inclusive, accessible, and affordable youth sports programs and coaching education.
SECTION 1. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
### SECTION 1.
(a) The lack of standards and certification for coaching in youth sports have resulted in an unregulated youth sports coaching landscape. There is currently no state-level standardization or required certification for coaches, leading to inconsistency in training, safety, and quality in youth sports.
(b) The unregulated coaching landscape poses health and safety risks. Untrained or poorly trained coaches may not be equipped to handle the needs of diverse youth, promote positive sports experiences, and ensure safety.
(c) The fragmented community youth sports system is currently made up of disjointed networks with no single unified system to coordinate or oversee community-based youth sports across regions or organizations, creating inefficiencies and inconsistencies in quality.
(d) This fragmented system has resulted in the duplication of efforts. Multiple organizations work in overlapping areas, causing confusion and misallocation of resources.
(e)The Physical Education Model Content Standards for California Public Schools last updated in 2006, do not reflect current physical education practices or adequately address the broad needs of todays youth. Updated standards will support schools and sports programs to improve their structure for childrens physical development, mental health, and overall well-being.
(f)Updating the physical education model content standards is especially critical when considering the diversity of student needs due to disabilities, adverse childhood experiences, and cultural considerations.
(g)
(e) The inadequate funding of school-based and community-based sports fails to meet the growing demand for quality sports and fitness opportunities, particularly when considering the physical and mental health benefits of organized activity.
(h)School-based physical education and after school programs are underfunded and recess is often cut short or underfunded.
(i)
(f) The pay-to-play model for youth sports has become increasingly exclusionary, driven by a win-at-all-cost mentality that is creating undue stress and anxiety for participants and encouraging overspecialization at an early age, increasing injury risk. In addition, excessive travel, fees, and equipment costs create financial barriers for many families, leaving millions of children unable to participate in organized youth sports.
(j)
(g) Youth sports provide numerous benefits, including improved physical and mental health, academic success, and social development. They provide the opportunity to develop resilience and teamwork as well as other social skills that help make youth athletes life ready. Despite these benefits, participation rates vary significantly across racial and socioeconomic lines.
(k)
(h) The 2024 Play Equity Report, commissioned by the LA84 Foundation, highlights stark disparities, with Black and Latino youth participation in structured sports as low as 47 percent and 45 percent, respectively, compared to 59 percent for White youth. Barriers include cost, lack of facilities, and limited programming in underserved communities.
(l)
(i) A centralized entity, such as a California department or commission of youth sports, can be an essential entity for creating an integrated, equitable, and sustainable framework for youth sports. Through coordinated efforts, updated standards, investment, and a focus on reducing financial barriers, California can ensure all children have the opportunity to access and engage in sports and experience its lifelong physical, mental, and academic benefits.
(m)
(j) Models from other countries, where sports ministries successfully coordinate national sports policies, provide valuable examples.
(n)
(k) A centralized entity could address inequities by promoting inclusive, accessible, and affordable youth sports programs and coaching education.
SEC. 2. Article 2.8 (commencing with Section 124250) is added to Chapter 4 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code, to read: Article 2.8. YOUTH SPORTS FOR ALL ACT124250. This article shall be known, and may be cited, as the Youth Sports for All Act.124251. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:(a) Centralized entity means a department, commission, board, council, or their equivalent.(b) Commission means the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity established and convened pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 124252.(c) Youth sports has the same meaning as youth sports organization as defined in Section 124235.124252. (a) (1) The Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, secretary, shall, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study to review the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(2) The commission shall be composed of all of the following:(A) 10 Seven members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency, as follows:(i)One member who represents a statewide teachers association.(ii)One member who represents a statewide administrators association.(iii)(i) One member who represents a statewide parents association.(iv)(ii) One member who represents youth athletes.(v)(iii) One member from an institution of higher education with relevant academic knowledge of youth sports, youth development, physical education, or equivalent fields of study.(vi)(iv) One member from an organization with relevant expertise in youth mental health.(vii)(v) One member from an organization that represents publicly funded youth sports programs.(viii)(vi) One member from a community-based, sports-based youth development program.(ix)One member with relevant experience providing instruction in physical education.(x)One additional member.(B)One member appointed by the State Department of Education.(C)(vii) One member who represents a statewide organization that advocates for Californians with disabilities.(B) One member appointed by the Governors Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being.(D)(C) One member appointed by the Governor.(E)(D) One member appointed by the Play Equity Fund.(F)(E) One member appointed by the Positive Coaching Alliance.(G)(F) One member appointed by Playworks.(H)(G) One member appointed by Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport.(I)(H) One member appointed by the California Interscholastic Federation.(J)(I) One member appointed by a statewide organization that represents municipalities and local governments that operate youth sports.(K)(J) One or more additional members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency as needed to support the work of the commission.(b) The commission shall be cochaired by one of the members appointed by the agency pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a) and the member appointed by the Play Equity Fund pursuant to subparagraph (E) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a).124254. (a) The commission shall conduct a study of issues in youth sports that includes all of the following:(1) An assessment of the need and potential for a centralized entity to improve access to and involvement in sports for all youth, regardless of race, income, or geographic location, that addresses issues in youth sports, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Disparities in youth sports programming quality and availability.(B) How to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for youth sports.(C) How to increase and integrate regular physical activity and sports into elementary and secondary education through schoolday programming, the daily lives of youth, including, but not limited to, through after school programs, programs and community-based organizations.(D) How to implement statewide coaching certification requirements to ensure quality training for all coaches in youth sports.(E) How to update curriculum frameworks to include improve training and strategies for youth development, safety protocols, equity and inclusion, and sport-specific knowledge. knowledge across the youth sports landscape.(F) How to update the current physical education model content standards and frameworks to ensure that they reflect best educational and promote practices and safety guidelines, and include protocols, including support for diverse forms of physical activity to increase equity and access to youth sports and play.(G) How to better integrate structured sports and team-building activities into physical education curricula. the daily lives of youth.(H) How to create a mechanism for sustainable and adequate state investment in school-based physical education programs and recess and after school youth sports to improve accessibility, infrastructure, and overall quality.(I) How to increase state investment in the expansion of accessible, free, or low-cost after school and community-based youth sports programs that complement academic and recreational goals.(J) How to create a mechanism for state and local funding initiatives that reduce or eliminate financial barriers to youth sports participation.(2) An evaluation of and recommendations for the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a centralized entity, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) A determination of the appropriate levels of oversight of relevant laws and regulations, including safety and licensing requirements for coaches and staff of youth sports.(B) A determination of which youth sports would benefit from support and regulation from a centralized entity.(C) Development and administration of statewide licensing and safety requirements.(D) Development and administration of statewide youth sports access and quality standards.(E) Development of strategies and best practices to improve access and equity to competitive and noncompetitive youth sports and play.(F) Coordination of relevant state state, local, and federal entities to improve access and equity in youth sports programs, including updating physical education model content standards, frameworks, and curricula. sharing best practices and resources.(G) Identifying duplication of efforts and inefficiencies among state and local entities and youth sports programs.(H) Identifying data gaps and development of data collection and reporting requirements.(3) A review of and recommendations for both of the following:(A) The costs of creating and sustaining a centralized entity.(B) Potential funding sources, including state, federal, private, and philanthropic sources.(b) In conducting the study, the commission shall analyze models of centralized entities in other states and countries that are charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(c) The California Health and Human Services Agency may enter into a contract with an external entity, including an institution of higher education or a nonprofit organization with relevant expertise, to conduct the study required by this section.(d) Before finalizing the study and before submission pursuant to subdivision (e), the commission shall publically present the study and provide an opportunity for public feedback.(e) (1) The commission shall, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study conducted pursuant to this section to the Legislature and the Governor.(2) A report to be submitted to the Legislature pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.124256. (a) The implementation of this article is contingent upon an either of the following:(1) An appropriation for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(2) Sufficient funds being obtained by the California Health and Human Services Agency from federal, non-profit, or private sources for the purposes of implementing this article.(b) The California Health and Human Services Agency may use funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources to augment an appropriation made to implement this article. (b)(c) This article shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.
SEC. 2. Article 2.8 (commencing with Section 124250) is added to Chapter 4 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code, to read:
### SEC. 2.
Article 2.8. YOUTH SPORTS FOR ALL ACT124250. This article shall be known, and may be cited, as the Youth Sports for All Act.124251. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:(a) Centralized entity means a department, commission, board, council, or their equivalent.(b) Commission means the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity established and convened pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 124252.(c) Youth sports has the same meaning as youth sports organization as defined in Section 124235.124252. (a) (1) The Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, secretary, shall, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study to review the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(2) The commission shall be composed of all of the following:(A) 10 Seven members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency, as follows:(i)One member who represents a statewide teachers association.(ii)One member who represents a statewide administrators association.(iii)(i) One member who represents a statewide parents association.(iv)(ii) One member who represents youth athletes.(v)(iii) One member from an institution of higher education with relevant academic knowledge of youth sports, youth development, physical education, or equivalent fields of study.(vi)(iv) One member from an organization with relevant expertise in youth mental health.(vii)(v) One member from an organization that represents publicly funded youth sports programs.(viii)(vi) One member from a community-based, sports-based youth development program.(ix)One member with relevant experience providing instruction in physical education.(x)One additional member.(B)One member appointed by the State Department of Education.(C)(vii) One member who represents a statewide organization that advocates for Californians with disabilities.(B) One member appointed by the Governors Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being.(D)(C) One member appointed by the Governor.(E)(D) One member appointed by the Play Equity Fund.(F)(E) One member appointed by the Positive Coaching Alliance.(G)(F) One member appointed by Playworks.(H)(G) One member appointed by Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport.(I)(H) One member appointed by the California Interscholastic Federation.(J)(I) One member appointed by a statewide organization that represents municipalities and local governments that operate youth sports.(K)(J) One or more additional members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency as needed to support the work of the commission.(b) The commission shall be cochaired by one of the members appointed by the agency pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a) and the member appointed by the Play Equity Fund pursuant to subparagraph (E) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a).124254. (a) The commission shall conduct a study of issues in youth sports that includes all of the following:(1) An assessment of the need and potential for a centralized entity to improve access to and involvement in sports for all youth, regardless of race, income, or geographic location, that addresses issues in youth sports, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Disparities in youth sports programming quality and availability.(B) How to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for youth sports.(C) How to increase and integrate regular physical activity and sports into elementary and secondary education through schoolday programming, the daily lives of youth, including, but not limited to, through after school programs, programs and community-based organizations.(D) How to implement statewide coaching certification requirements to ensure quality training for all coaches in youth sports.(E) How to update curriculum frameworks to include improve training and strategies for youth development, safety protocols, equity and inclusion, and sport-specific knowledge. knowledge across the youth sports landscape.(F) How to update the current physical education model content standards and frameworks to ensure that they reflect best educational and promote practices and safety guidelines, and include protocols, including support for diverse forms of physical activity to increase equity and access to youth sports and play.(G) How to better integrate structured sports and team-building activities into physical education curricula. the daily lives of youth.(H) How to create a mechanism for sustainable and adequate state investment in school-based physical education programs and recess and after school youth sports to improve accessibility, infrastructure, and overall quality.(I) How to increase state investment in the expansion of accessible, free, or low-cost after school and community-based youth sports programs that complement academic and recreational goals.(J) How to create a mechanism for state and local funding initiatives that reduce or eliminate financial barriers to youth sports participation.(2) An evaluation of and recommendations for the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a centralized entity, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) A determination of the appropriate levels of oversight of relevant laws and regulations, including safety and licensing requirements for coaches and staff of youth sports.(B) A determination of which youth sports would benefit from support and regulation from a centralized entity.(C) Development and administration of statewide licensing and safety requirements.(D) Development and administration of statewide youth sports access and quality standards.(E) Development of strategies and best practices to improve access and equity to competitive and noncompetitive youth sports and play.(F) Coordination of relevant state state, local, and federal entities to improve access and equity in youth sports programs, including updating physical education model content standards, frameworks, and curricula. sharing best practices and resources.(G) Identifying duplication of efforts and inefficiencies among state and local entities and youth sports programs.(H) Identifying data gaps and development of data collection and reporting requirements.(3) A review of and recommendations for both of the following:(A) The costs of creating and sustaining a centralized entity.(B) Potential funding sources, including state, federal, private, and philanthropic sources.(b) In conducting the study, the commission shall analyze models of centralized entities in other states and countries that are charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(c) The California Health and Human Services Agency may enter into a contract with an external entity, including an institution of higher education or a nonprofit organization with relevant expertise, to conduct the study required by this section.(d) Before finalizing the study and before submission pursuant to subdivision (e), the commission shall publically present the study and provide an opportunity for public feedback.(e) (1) The commission shall, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study conducted pursuant to this section to the Legislature and the Governor.(2) A report to be submitted to the Legislature pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.124256. (a) The implementation of this article is contingent upon an either of the following:(1) An appropriation for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(2) Sufficient funds being obtained by the California Health and Human Services Agency from federal, non-profit, or private sources for the purposes of implementing this article.(b) The California Health and Human Services Agency may use funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources to augment an appropriation made to implement this article. (b)(c) This article shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.
Article 2.8. YOUTH SPORTS FOR ALL ACT124250. This article shall be known, and may be cited, as the Youth Sports for All Act.124251. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:(a) Centralized entity means a department, commission, board, council, or their equivalent.(b) Commission means the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity established and convened pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 124252.(c) Youth sports has the same meaning as youth sports organization as defined in Section 124235.124252. (a) (1) The Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, secretary, shall, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study to review the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(2) The commission shall be composed of all of the following:(A) 10 Seven members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency, as follows:(i)One member who represents a statewide teachers association.(ii)One member who represents a statewide administrators association.(iii)(i) One member who represents a statewide parents association.(iv)(ii) One member who represents youth athletes.(v)(iii) One member from an institution of higher education with relevant academic knowledge of youth sports, youth development, physical education, or equivalent fields of study.(vi)(iv) One member from an organization with relevant expertise in youth mental health.(vii)(v) One member from an organization that represents publicly funded youth sports programs.(viii)(vi) One member from a community-based, sports-based youth development program.(ix)One member with relevant experience providing instruction in physical education.(x)One additional member.(B)One member appointed by the State Department of Education.(C)(vii) One member who represents a statewide organization that advocates for Californians with disabilities.(B) One member appointed by the Governors Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being.(D)(C) One member appointed by the Governor.(E)(D) One member appointed by the Play Equity Fund.(F)(E) One member appointed by the Positive Coaching Alliance.(G)(F) One member appointed by Playworks.(H)(G) One member appointed by Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport.(I)(H) One member appointed by the California Interscholastic Federation.(J)(I) One member appointed by a statewide organization that represents municipalities and local governments that operate youth sports.(K)(J) One or more additional members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency as needed to support the work of the commission.(b) The commission shall be cochaired by one of the members appointed by the agency pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a) and the member appointed by the Play Equity Fund pursuant to subparagraph (E) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a).124254. (a) The commission shall conduct a study of issues in youth sports that includes all of the following:(1) An assessment of the need and potential for a centralized entity to improve access to and involvement in sports for all youth, regardless of race, income, or geographic location, that addresses issues in youth sports, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Disparities in youth sports programming quality and availability.(B) How to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for youth sports.(C) How to increase and integrate regular physical activity and sports into elementary and secondary education through schoolday programming, the daily lives of youth, including, but not limited to, through after school programs, programs and community-based organizations.(D) How to implement statewide coaching certification requirements to ensure quality training for all coaches in youth sports.(E) How to update curriculum frameworks to include improve training and strategies for youth development, safety protocols, equity and inclusion, and sport-specific knowledge. knowledge across the youth sports landscape.(F) How to update the current physical education model content standards and frameworks to ensure that they reflect best educational and promote practices and safety guidelines, and include protocols, including support for diverse forms of physical activity to increase equity and access to youth sports and play.(G) How to better integrate structured sports and team-building activities into physical education curricula. the daily lives of youth.(H) How to create a mechanism for sustainable and adequate state investment in school-based physical education programs and recess and after school youth sports to improve accessibility, infrastructure, and overall quality.(I) How to increase state investment in the expansion of accessible, free, or low-cost after school and community-based youth sports programs that complement academic and recreational goals.(J) How to create a mechanism for state and local funding initiatives that reduce or eliminate financial barriers to youth sports participation.(2) An evaluation of and recommendations for the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a centralized entity, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) A determination of the appropriate levels of oversight of relevant laws and regulations, including safety and licensing requirements for coaches and staff of youth sports.(B) A determination of which youth sports would benefit from support and regulation from a centralized entity.(C) Development and administration of statewide licensing and safety requirements.(D) Development and administration of statewide youth sports access and quality standards.(E) Development of strategies and best practices to improve access and equity to competitive and noncompetitive youth sports and play.(F) Coordination of relevant state state, local, and federal entities to improve access and equity in youth sports programs, including updating physical education model content standards, frameworks, and curricula. sharing best practices and resources.(G) Identifying duplication of efforts and inefficiencies among state and local entities and youth sports programs.(H) Identifying data gaps and development of data collection and reporting requirements.(3) A review of and recommendations for both of the following:(A) The costs of creating and sustaining a centralized entity.(B) Potential funding sources, including state, federal, private, and philanthropic sources.(b) In conducting the study, the commission shall analyze models of centralized entities in other states and countries that are charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(c) The California Health and Human Services Agency may enter into a contract with an external entity, including an institution of higher education or a nonprofit organization with relevant expertise, to conduct the study required by this section.(d) Before finalizing the study and before submission pursuant to subdivision (e), the commission shall publically present the study and provide an opportunity for public feedback.(e) (1) The commission shall, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study conducted pursuant to this section to the Legislature and the Governor.(2) A report to be submitted to the Legislature pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.124256. (a) The implementation of this article is contingent upon an either of the following:(1) An appropriation for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(2) Sufficient funds being obtained by the California Health and Human Services Agency from federal, non-profit, or private sources for the purposes of implementing this article.(b) The California Health and Human Services Agency may use funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources to augment an appropriation made to implement this article. (b)(c) This article shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.
Article 2.8. YOUTH SPORTS FOR ALL ACT
Article 2.8. YOUTH SPORTS FOR ALL ACT
124250. This article shall be known, and may be cited, as the Youth Sports for All Act.
124250. This article shall be known, and may be cited, as the Youth Sports for All Act.
124251. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:(a) Centralized entity means a department, commission, board, council, or their equivalent.(b) Commission means the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity established and convened pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 124252.(c) Youth sports has the same meaning as youth sports organization as defined in Section 124235.
124251. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:
(a) Centralized entity means a department, commission, board, council, or their equivalent.
(b) Commission means the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity established and convened pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 124252.
(c) Youth sports has the same meaning as youth sports organization as defined in Section 124235.
124252. (a) (1) The Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, secretary, shall, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study to review the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(2) The commission shall be composed of all of the following:(A) 10 Seven members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency, as follows:(i)One member who represents a statewide teachers association.(ii)One member who represents a statewide administrators association.(iii)(i) One member who represents a statewide parents association.(iv)(ii) One member who represents youth athletes.(v)(iii) One member from an institution of higher education with relevant academic knowledge of youth sports, youth development, physical education, or equivalent fields of study.(vi)(iv) One member from an organization with relevant expertise in youth mental health.(vii)(v) One member from an organization that represents publicly funded youth sports programs.(viii)(vi) One member from a community-based, sports-based youth development program.(ix)One member with relevant experience providing instruction in physical education.(x)One additional member.(B)One member appointed by the State Department of Education.(C)(vii) One member who represents a statewide organization that advocates for Californians with disabilities.(B) One member appointed by the Governors Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being.(D)(C) One member appointed by the Governor.(E)(D) One member appointed by the Play Equity Fund.(F)(E) One member appointed by the Positive Coaching Alliance.(G)(F) One member appointed by Playworks.(H)(G) One member appointed by Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport.(I)(H) One member appointed by the California Interscholastic Federation.(J)(I) One member appointed by a statewide organization that represents municipalities and local governments that operate youth sports.(K)(J) One or more additional members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency as needed to support the work of the commission.(b) The commission shall be cochaired by one of the members appointed by the agency pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a) and the member appointed by the Play Equity Fund pursuant to subparagraph (E) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a).
124252. (a) (1) The Secretary of California Health and Human Services, in consultation with the State Department of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Services and other relevant agencies or departments as determined by the Secretary, secretary, shall, on or before March 1, 2026, establish and convene the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Development of a California Department of Youth Sports or an Equivalent Centralized Entity to conduct a comprehensive study to review the need for and feasibility of creating a centralized entity charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.
(2) The commission shall be composed of all of the following:
(A) 10 Seven members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency, as follows:
(i)One member who represents a statewide teachers association.
(ii)One member who represents a statewide administrators association.
(iii)
(i) One member who represents a statewide parents association.
(iv)
(ii) One member who represents youth athletes.
(v)
(iii) One member from an institution of higher education with relevant academic knowledge of youth sports, youth development, physical education, or equivalent fields of study.
(vi)
(iv) One member from an organization with relevant expertise in youth mental health.
(vii)
(v) One member from an organization that represents publicly funded youth sports programs.
(viii)
(vi) One member from a community-based, sports-based youth development program.
(ix)One member with relevant experience providing instruction in physical education.
(x)One additional member.
(B)One member appointed by the State Department of Education.
(C)
(vii) One member who represents a statewide organization that advocates for Californians with disabilities.
(B) One member appointed by the Governors Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being.
(D)
(C) One member appointed by the Governor.
(E)
(D) One member appointed by the Play Equity Fund.
(F)
(E) One member appointed by the Positive Coaching Alliance.
(G)
(F) One member appointed by Playworks.
(H)
(G) One member appointed by Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport.
(I)
(H) One member appointed by the California Interscholastic Federation.
(J)
(I) One member appointed by a statewide organization that represents municipalities and local governments that operate youth sports.
(K)
(J) One or more additional members appointed by the California Health and Human Services Agency as needed to support the work of the commission.
(b) The commission shall be cochaired by one of the members appointed by the agency pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a) and the member appointed by the Play Equity Fund pursuant to subparagraph (E) of paragraph (2) subdivision (a).
124254. (a) The commission shall conduct a study of issues in youth sports that includes all of the following:(1) An assessment of the need and potential for a centralized entity to improve access to and involvement in sports for all youth, regardless of race, income, or geographic location, that addresses issues in youth sports, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Disparities in youth sports programming quality and availability.(B) How to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for youth sports.(C) How to increase and integrate regular physical activity and sports into elementary and secondary education through schoolday programming, the daily lives of youth, including, but not limited to, through after school programs, programs and community-based organizations.(D) How to implement statewide coaching certification requirements to ensure quality training for all coaches in youth sports.(E) How to update curriculum frameworks to include improve training and strategies for youth development, safety protocols, equity and inclusion, and sport-specific knowledge. knowledge across the youth sports landscape.(F) How to update the current physical education model content standards and frameworks to ensure that they reflect best educational and promote practices and safety guidelines, and include protocols, including support for diverse forms of physical activity to increase equity and access to youth sports and play.(G) How to better integrate structured sports and team-building activities into physical education curricula. the daily lives of youth.(H) How to create a mechanism for sustainable and adequate state investment in school-based physical education programs and recess and after school youth sports to improve accessibility, infrastructure, and overall quality.(I) How to increase state investment in the expansion of accessible, free, or low-cost after school and community-based youth sports programs that complement academic and recreational goals.(J) How to create a mechanism for state and local funding initiatives that reduce or eliminate financial barriers to youth sports participation.(2) An evaluation of and recommendations for the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a centralized entity, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) A determination of the appropriate levels of oversight of relevant laws and regulations, including safety and licensing requirements for coaches and staff of youth sports.(B) A determination of which youth sports would benefit from support and regulation from a centralized entity.(C) Development and administration of statewide licensing and safety requirements.(D) Development and administration of statewide youth sports access and quality standards.(E) Development of strategies and best practices to improve access and equity to competitive and noncompetitive youth sports and play.(F) Coordination of relevant state state, local, and federal entities to improve access and equity in youth sports programs, including updating physical education model content standards, frameworks, and curricula. sharing best practices and resources.(G) Identifying duplication of efforts and inefficiencies among state and local entities and youth sports programs.(H) Identifying data gaps and development of data collection and reporting requirements.(3) A review of and recommendations for both of the following:(A) The costs of creating and sustaining a centralized entity.(B) Potential funding sources, including state, federal, private, and philanthropic sources.(b) In conducting the study, the commission shall analyze models of centralized entities in other states and countries that are charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.(c) The California Health and Human Services Agency may enter into a contract with an external entity, including an institution of higher education or a nonprofit organization with relevant expertise, to conduct the study required by this section.(d) Before finalizing the study and before submission pursuant to subdivision (e), the commission shall publically present the study and provide an opportunity for public feedback.(e) (1) The commission shall, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study conducted pursuant to this section to the Legislature and the Governor.(2) A report to be submitted to the Legislature pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.
124254. (a) The commission shall conduct a study of issues in youth sports that includes all of the following:
(1) An assessment of the need and potential for a centralized entity to improve access to and involvement in sports for all youth, regardless of race, income, or geographic location, that addresses issues in youth sports, including, but not limited to, all of the following:
(A) Disparities in youth sports programming quality and availability.
(B) How to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for youth sports.
(C) How to increase and integrate regular physical activity and sports into elementary and secondary education through schoolday programming, the daily lives of youth, including, but not limited to, through after school programs, programs and community-based organizations.
(D) How to implement statewide coaching certification requirements to ensure quality training for all coaches in youth sports.
(E) How to update curriculum frameworks to include improve training and strategies for youth development, safety protocols, equity and inclusion, and sport-specific knowledge. knowledge across the youth sports landscape.
(F) How to update the current physical education model content standards and frameworks to ensure that they reflect best educational and promote practices and safety guidelines, and include protocols, including support for diverse forms of physical activity to increase equity and access to youth sports and play.
(G) How to better integrate structured sports and team-building activities into physical education curricula. the daily lives of youth.
(H) How to create a mechanism for sustainable and adequate state investment in school-based physical education programs and recess and after school youth sports to improve accessibility, infrastructure, and overall quality.
(I) How to increase state investment in the expansion of accessible, free, or low-cost after school and community-based youth sports programs that complement academic and recreational goals.
(J) How to create a mechanism for state and local funding initiatives that reduce or eliminate financial barriers to youth sports participation.
(2) An evaluation of and recommendations for the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a centralized entity, including, but not limited to, all of the following:
(A) A determination of the appropriate levels of oversight of relevant laws and regulations, including safety and licensing requirements for coaches and staff of youth sports.
(B) A determination of which youth sports would benefit from support and regulation from a centralized entity.
(C) Development and administration of statewide licensing and safety requirements.
(D) Development and administration of statewide youth sports access and quality standards.
(E) Development of strategies and best practices to improve access and equity to competitive and noncompetitive youth sports and play.
(F) Coordination of relevant state state, local, and federal entities to improve access and equity in youth sports programs, including updating physical education model content standards, frameworks, and curricula. sharing best practices and resources.
(G) Identifying duplication of efforts and inefficiencies among state and local entities and youth sports programs.
(H) Identifying data gaps and development of data collection and reporting requirements.
(3) A review of and recommendations for both of the following:
(A) The costs of creating and sustaining a centralized entity.
(B) Potential funding sources, including state, federal, private, and philanthropic sources.
(b) In conducting the study, the commission shall analyze models of centralized entities in other states and countries that are charged with supporting and regulating youth sports.
(c) The California Health and Human Services Agency may enter into a contract with an external entity, including an institution of higher education or a nonprofit organization with relevant expertise, to conduct the study required by this section.
(d) Before finalizing the study and before submission pursuant to subdivision (e), the commission shall publically present the study and provide an opportunity for public feedback.
(e) (1) The commission shall, on or before January 1, 2027, submit the study conducted pursuant to this section to the Legislature and the Governor.
(2) A report to be submitted to the Legislature pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.
124256. (a) The implementation of this article is contingent upon an either of the following:(1) An appropriation for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(2) Sufficient funds being obtained by the California Health and Human Services Agency from federal, non-profit, or private sources for the purposes of implementing this article.(b) The California Health and Human Services Agency may use funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources to augment an appropriation made to implement this article. (b)(c) This article shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.
124256. (a) The implementation of this article is contingent upon an either of the following:
(1) An appropriation for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.
(2) Sufficient funds being obtained by the California Health and Human Services Agency from federal, non-profit, or private sources for the purposes of implementing this article.
(b) The California Health and Human Services Agency may use funds from federal, non-profit, or private sources to augment an appropriation made to implement this article.
(b)
(c) This article shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.