U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Mike Kelly (R-PA) recently introduced a bipartisan bill that aims to help support Americans in living healthier lives by offering pre-tax savings as an incentive to be more active.
The Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, H.R. 2369, which Rep. Kelly sponsored alongside original cosponsors Rep. Fitzpatrick and U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), would permit Americans to use pre-tax dollars from Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to offset the cost of fitness-related expenses — including gym memberships, youth sports league fees, and fitness equipment, among others.
“As a former college football player and youth football coach myself, I’ve seen young Americans greatly improve their lives because they were able to join a team and play sports,” Rep. Kelly said. “This bill gives kids, especially those in underserved or low-income communities, a real chance to play the sport of their choice. This isn’t just about athletics: it’s about gaining critical team-building and character-building traits that stay with kids for the rest of their lives.”
By removing financial barriers to fitness, H.R. 2369 aims to shift the focus of the nation’s healthcare system from treatment to prevention, according to the lawmakers.
“Preventive health care doesn’t start in the doctor’s office — it starts with daily movement, access to fitness, and the ability to stay active,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “The PHIT Act is about making those opportunities more affordable for families by allowing pre-tax health savings to cover fitness expenses. We’re working to remove cost as a barrier to healthier living and shift our healthcare system toward one that values prevention, wellness, and long-term results.”
The measure is supported by the National Football League, the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, the Health & Fitness Association, and YMCA of the USA.
U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) introduced the identical S. 1144 in the Senate.
“By breaking down financial barriers, we can encourage healthier habits, strengthen our communities, and invest in preventive care that lasts a lifetime,” added Rep. Panetta.