Supporting the designation of "Scouting America Day" in celebration of its 116th anniversary.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 1041
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Government Operations and Politics
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-02-05: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-08T00:34:49Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 1041) expresses congressional support for designating February 8, 2026, as "Scouting America Day" to celebrate the 116th anniversary of the incorporation of Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America). It highlights the organization's history, contributions to youth development, and role in building community and leadership skills.
Key Provisions
- Historical Background: Outlines the founding in 1910 by William Boyce, inspired by the Scouting movement in London; the establishment of a national headquarters in 1910; expansion to all states by 1912; and the first Eagle Scout Award in 1912.
- Core Mission: Emphasizes teaching youth self-reliance, character, ethical decision-making, and civic leadership through the Scout Oath and Law.
- Achievements and Impact:
- Over 2.8 million youth have earned the Eagle Scout rank since 1912, with nearly 25,000 in 2025 alone.
- About 15% of cadets at U.S. military academies are Eagle Scouts.
- 11 of the 12 Moon walkers participated in Scouting, including 2 Eagle Scouts.
- Nearly 1 million youth enrolled in 2025 contributed over 7 million service hours to communities.
- Partnership with the America 250 initiative for the U.S. semiquincentennial (250th anniversary).
- More than 500,000 adult volunteers support the program through chartered organizations like religious and civic groups.
- Federal Recognition: Notes the 1916 congressional charter granting federal status.
- Resolved Clause: The House of Representatives formally supports the designation of "Scouting America Day" to recognize the organization's enduring contributions to developing fit, self-reliant, value-driven citizens who understand American principles and global roles.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. It builds on the 1916 federal charter but only expresses symbolic support without enacting new legal requirements.
Potential Impacts
- On Citizens and Communities: Encourages public recognition of Scouting's role in youth development, potentially increasing volunteerism, enrollment, and community service. It honors the contributions of youth and adult leaders without seeking public thanks.
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact; may indirectly support commemorative events tied to the America 250 initiative, involving agencies like the National Park Service or congressional offices in outreach.
- On International Relations: None significant, though it underscores Scouting's origins in the global movement and promotes American values like leadership and respect for rights.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Scouting America Organization: Receives formal congressional endorsement, enhancing its visibility and prestige.
- Youth and Families: Over 1 million enrolled youth and their families benefit from the celebratory recognition of their achievements and service.
- Adult Volunteers and Chartered Partners: More than 500,000 leaders in religious, civic, and other groups are acknowledged for their unpaid efforts.
- Military and Public Figures: Highlights connections to military academies and notable alumni (e.g., astronauts), potentially inspiring future participants.
- Broader Public: Encourages national appreciation for Scouting's role in civic education and community building.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: As a simple resolution, it has no force of law and requires no presidential approval; it reaffirms the 1916 charter without altering it.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's power to recognize institutions and promote civic values under the First Amendment's free speech protections, posing no constitutional concerns.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan support (introduced by representatives from both parties) for a longstanding American institution, potentially fostering goodwill across political divides. It reflects a focus on youth programs amid national commemorations like America 250, but carries no enforceable obligations.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Thompson, Glenn [R-PA-15]
Cosponsors (7)
Rep. Bishop, Sanford D. [D-GA-2], Rep. Sessions, Pete [R-TX-17], Rep. Bacon, Don [R-NE-2], Rep. Ellzey, Jake [R-TX-6], Rep. Walkinshaw, James R. [D-VA-11], Rep. Kennedy, Mike [R-UT-3], Rep. Hill, J. French [R-AR-2]
Recent Actions
- 2026-02-05: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
- 2026-02-05: Submitted in House
- 2026-02-05: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Supporting the designation of "Scouting America Day" in celebration of its 116th anniversary. — issued 2026-02-05 — PDF (3 pages)