Bipartisan bill to increase civics, government education introduced by Hinson

U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) on Tuesday signed on as the lead original cosponsor of a bipartisan bill that aims to increase students’ access to civics and government education and resources.

The Promoting Programming, Research, Education and Preservation in (PREP) Civics and Government Act, H.R. 1133, which is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (D-MI) and 11 other original cosponsors, including U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), would clarify that the scope of the National Endowment for the Humanities includes the study of civics and government, according to the congressional record bill summary.

“Times have changed, and I’m concerned by the downward trend in civic engagement among young people,” Rep. Hinson said on Feb. 20. “That’s why I’m proud to again co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Dan Kildee to help ensure students learn about our history and government, and are hopefully inspired to engage in public policy, get involved, and make a difference in their communities.”

Rep. Kildee pointed out that civically engaged Americans play a part in the issues most important to their neighbors and community by voting, volunteering, and voicing their opinions. 

“Learning how to participate in our government begins when young people learn about how their government was formed and how it works — both in the classroom and in museums across the country,” said the congressman. “I am proud to introduce legislation to ensure our youth have access to civics education.”

H.R. 1133 has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Education and the Workforce Committee.