Bill > S3676

This bill, titled the "American Decade of Sports Act," mandates the creation of a comprehensive sports diplomacy strategy to leverage major international sporting events hosted in the United States between 2024 and 2034, referred to as the "mega-decade of sports," to boost American influence abroad. The Secretary of State must submit a 5-year strategy to Congress within 180 days of the bill's enactment, and again five years later, outlining diplomatic objectives, plans for collaboration with various stakeholders like local communities and the private sector, how to integrate sports into public diplomacy efforts, and ensuring efficient visa processes for international visitors. This strategy will be made public, and the Secretary will consult with Congress on its development and provide regular updates. Furthermore, the bill requires the renaming of the Sports Diplomacy Division within the State Department to the "Office of Sports Diplomacy," which will be responsible for managing exchange programs and implementing the strategy, including coordinating with other government agencies and engaging with diaspora communities and the sports industry. The Office will also be staffed with at least three additional full-time employees dedicated to this initiative until the end of 2034, and the Secretary of State will submit annual reports to Congress on the progress of the strategy's implementation.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3676/all-info