To provide that certain local parks are eligible for E-Rate support, to provide that local parks are eligible for the loan, lease, or transfer of certain excess research equipment, and to direct the Secretary of Labor to carry out a program to make grants for conducting technology training programs in local parks, and for other purposes.

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Summary of Bill HR 8494

Bill 118 hr 8494, also known as the Local Parks Technology Act, aims to provide support for local parks in the United States in various ways. The bill proposes that certain local parks be eligible for E-Rate support, which is a program that helps schools and libraries access affordable telecommunications and internet services. This would allow local parks to improve their technology infrastructure and provide better access to the internet for visitors.

Additionally, the bill suggests that local parks should be eligible to receive loans, leases, or transfers of excess research equipment. This would enable parks to acquire necessary equipment for research and educational purposes, enhancing the overall experience for park visitors.

Furthermore, the bill directs the Secretary of Labor to establish a program that offers grants for technology training programs in local parks. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for individuals to gain valuable skills in technology, ultimately benefiting both the workforce and the local community. Overall, the Local Parks Technology Act seeks to support local parks in enhancing their technological capabilities and providing valuable resources for visitors.

Congressional Summary of HR 8494

Technology in the Parks Act of 2024

This bill requires the Department of Labor to award grants to nonprofit organizations to carry out technology training programs in local parks. Training programs must serve individuals who are receiving unemployment or other specified public assistance benefits, and must result in the award of a postsecondary degree or credential.

The bill also makes local parks that have contracted with nonprofits to provide technology training under the grant program eligible for discounted telecommunications service under the Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support (E-Rate) program.

Current Status of Bill HR 8494

Bill HR 8494 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since May 22, 2024. Bill HR 8494 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on May 22, 2024. Bill HR 8494's most recent activity was Referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. as of May 22, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 8494

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Unaffiliated Sponsors

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 8494

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 8494

To provide that certain local parks are eligible for E-Rate support, to provide that local parks are eligible for the loan, lease, or transfer of certain excess research equipment, and to direct the Secretary of Labor to carry out a program to make grants for conducting technology training programs in local parks, and for other purposes.