CURRENT, FORMER BOYS NATION DELEGATES GATHER TO SUPPORT RAMSTAD YOUTH COMMISSION BILL 

WASHINGTON – Rep. Jim Ramstad (R-MN), who attended American Legion’s Boys Nation in 1963 with former President Clinton, today proposed legislation to set up a "Youth Commission" to promote the active involvement of youth in public affairs and to seek input from young people on public policy issues.

The idea for the bill (H.R. 1625) was brought to Ramstad by Sam Kelner, who attended today’s press conference and is a constituent of Ramstad’s from Plymouth, Minnesota. Sam is a former Boys Nation delegate. Current Boys Nation Senators attended the press conference.

"There are many pressing public policy issues that directly impact young people," said Ramstad. "The young people of America need to be heard on issues affecting their lives. From education and the environment to drugs and debt retirement, important decisions are being made today that will have a huge impact tomorrow."

"We need to do more to promote the active involvement of youth in government," said Ramstad, who noted that just one in five 18-24 year–olds voted in the 1998 elections and only 28% voted in the 2000 elections.

The Youth Commission will be composed of 8 members, with 4 appointed by the President and 1 by each of the party leaders of the House and Senate. Each member must be under 18 when appointed. The Commission will submit a report to Congress and the President each year with recommendations on public policy issues affecting youth.

"The number of issues Congress is debating today that affects future generations is almost endless, but the input of young people is almost non-existent," said Ramstad. "It’s very important that we reach out to young people as these major decisions are being made."

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