The Hearing Room: House Education Subcommittee Examines Costs of Youth Sports for Families

A House Education subcommittee held a hearing examining challenges facing youth sports in the U.S., especially rising costs amid declining participation rates. The panel focused on antitrust concerns in regard to private equity firms allegedly buying up leagues and pricing out low-income children from participation. Several lawmakers expressed interest in improving youth sports by offering more opportunities for children to play, regardless of skill level, as well as removing financial barriers.