Bill > HR6961

This bill, titled the "USMMA Athletics Act of 2026," aims to bolster the athletic programs at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) by authorizing the Secretary of Transportation to establish a non-profit corporation, organized under New York law and recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization by the IRS, to support these programs. This corporation, wholly owned by the United States and overseen by the Secretary, can enter into contracts and cooperative agreements, including sole-source contracts, for the benefit of USMMA athletics. The bill also allows the Secretary to lease USMMA property to the corporation for up to five years, provided the property isn't immediately needed by the Academy, and to provide essential support services like utilities and equipment. Furthermore, the Secretary can accept funds, supplies, and services from the corporation and other sources like the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and athletic conferences, as long as these contributions do not compromise the integrity or objectivity of the Department of Transportation's operations. The bill also amends existing law to allow the Secretary to license USMMA trademarks and service marks, retaining and using the generated fees for trademark registration, licensing program operations, and recruiting activities for the Academy, with these fees remaining available until spent. Importantly, employees of this new corporation are not considered federal employees.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6961/all-info