HARRISBURG – Senator Picozzi (SD-5) and Representative Joe Hogan (HD-142) announced they will be introducing legislation to provide tax credits for Pennsylvanians who want to make critical investments in the health of themselves and their families but may be deterred by the rising costs of gym memberships and youth sports.
Under one proposed bill, Pennsylvania taxpayers would be eligible for a Physical Health Improvement Tax (PHIT) Credit of up to $1,000 for expenses related to gym and health club memberships.
The PA Fitness Alliance, a consortium of health and lifestyle clubs across Pennsylvania that advocates for legislation supporting the health and well-being of residents of the Commonwealth, fully supports the proposed PHIT bill. According to PA Fitness Alliance Executive Director Linda Mitchell, “The PHIT bill is a smart, proactive investment in preventive health that makes physical activity more accessible for Pennsylvania families while helping reduce long-term healthcare costs across the Commonwealth.”
The Health and Fitness Association issued the following statement in support of the PHIT legislation, highlighting the critical role physical activity plays in improving long-term health outcomes: “The Health & Fitness Association applauds Sen. Joe Picozzi (District 5) and Rep. Joe Hogan (District 142) for introducing the PHIT Credit, a policy that prioritizes physical activity as a cornerstone of preventive health. This legislation promotes healthier lifestyles, reduces long-term chronic disease risk, and strengthens Pennsylvania’s public health system.”
The legislators also proposed a tax credit for youth sports, where parents of primary and secondary school students would be eligible for a tax credit up to $3,000 to offset costs of qualifying expenses for youth sports. The measure is designed to make participation in physical activity more accessible – particularly for working families balancing finances with the desire to keep their children engaged in healthy pursuits.
“This is about helping families prioritize health,” said Senator Picozzi. “Gym memberships and youth sports can be expensive, but they are investments in the long-term wellness of our communities. We are encouraging healthier lifestyles across the Commonwealth.”
Representative Joe Hogan emphasized the importance of regular physical activity and the legislation’s potential to support both physical and mental health, explaining, “exercise and youth sports teach discipline, teamwork, and confidence. By making it easier for families to afford these opportunities, we are helping children build lifelong healthy habits.”
Co-sponsorship memos for these proposals have been circulated. The bill sponsors will introduce language in the near future.