AFTER SCHOOL Act

The AFTER SCHOOL Act provides federal funding for after-school programs targeting students in grades 6-12 in counties with a juvenile offense rate of at least 10% (based on FBI crime data). It directs the Attorney General to award grants to eligible local schools or nonprofit organizations operating in these high-need counties, requiring programs to offer educational activities during non-school hours in a safe environment. Funding is allocated based on the number of eligible students served, with $15 million authorized annually for fiscal years 2026-2029. Grantees must report program participation and outcomes, and the Attorney General must submit annual summaries to Congress. This bill directly affects students in qualifying counties, schools, and community nonprofits operating after-school programs.