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The House voted overwhelmingly to reauthorize the Congressional Award Program through 2028. This bipartisan action ensures that the national youth recognition program continues without interruption.
This vote was to pass the Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act (S. 284). The bill extends the lifespan of the Congressional Award Program for five years, moving its official expiration date to October 2028. It also provides the program with more flexibility regarding the materials used to create its gold, silver, and bronze medals, removing strict requirements that they be made specifically of bronze or gold-plate. The vote was held under a process called "suspension of the rules." In the House, this is a fast-track procedure reserved for bills that have broad support from both parties. Because it skips several legislative hurdles, it requires a higher standard of two-thirds of the members present to vote "yes" for the bill to pass. The bill passed with a large bipartisan majority and had already cleared the Senate. Following this vote, the measure was sent to the President to be signed into law. This ensures that young Americans between the ages of 13 and 24 can continue to earn national recognition for achieving personal goals in public service, physical fitness, and personal development.
Since this bill was previously passed by the Senate, it now moves to the President's desk to be signed into law.
OPEN BILL →Why it matters. This ensures the continued existence of a program that encourages youth achievement in service, fitness, and personal development.
Who’s affected. Young Americans (ages 13.5 to 24): Can continue to participate in and receive awards from this national program for their community and personal achievements. · Congressional Award Foundation: Maintains the legal authority to operate and gains flexibility in medal manufacturing processes.
Democrats. Democrats voted unanimously in favor of the extension among those present.
Republicans. Republicans overwhelmingly supported the bill, though a small group of 22 members voted against it.
On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass
Dec 15, 2025
The House voted overwhelmingly to reauthorize the Congressional Award Program through 2028.
This bipartisan action ensures that the national youth recognition program continues without interruption.
A motion to suspend the rules is a fast-track method used for bills with broad support. It limits debate and prevents amendments but requires a two-thirds supermajority to pass instead of a simple majority.
Since this bill was previously passed by the Senate, it now moves to the President's desk to be signed into law.
This ensures the continued existence of a program that encourages youth achievement in service, fitness, and personal development.
The vote was highly bipartisan, with nearly all Democrats and the vast majority of Republicans supporting the measure.
Democrats voted unanimously in favor of the extension among those present.
Republicans overwhelmingly supported the bill, though a small group of 22 members voted against it.
The lone independent member voted in favor of the bill.