Bill > HR2971

This bill establishes a youth biodiversity monitoring grant program administered by the Secretary of Commerce to support educational projects that engage students in scientific research about wildlife and ecosystems. The program will provide grants to eligible entities such as nonprofit organizations, schools, universities, and government agencies to fund projects that use advanced technologies like environmental DNA analysis, drones, camera traps, and AI to teach students about biodiversity. Grants can cover expenses like supplies, transportation, scientific permits, and outreach. The bill prioritizes applications from projects focused on underserved communities and requires the Secretary to submit a report to Congress detailing grant recipients, amounts, project uses, and participant numbers. With $1 million authorized annually from 2026 to 2032, the program aims to provide youth with hands-on experience in wildlife science, marine science, conservation, and biodiversity research, using cutting-edge technological methods to engage and educate students about environmental monitoring and scientific investigation.