WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), along with U.S. Senators John Thune (SD) and Chris Murphy (CT), introduced the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, a bipartisan, bicameral effort to incentivize healthier living across the country. The legislation would empower Americans to use pre-tax dollars from Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to offset the cost of fitness-related expenses — including gym memberships, youth sports league fees, fitness equipment, and more.

By removing financial barriers to fitness, the PHIT Act aims to shift the focus of our health care system from treatment to prevention — helping families, communities, and individuals take proactive steps toward long-term health and well-being.

“Preventive health care doesn’t start in the doctor’s office — it starts with daily movement, access to fitness, and the ability to stay active,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “The PHIT Act is about making those opportunities more affordable for families by allowing pre-tax health savings to cover fitness expenses like youth sports, gym memberships, and exercise equipment. We’re working to remove cost as a barrier to healthier living and shift our health care system toward one that values prevention, wellness, and long-term results.”

“As a former college football player and youth football coach myself, I’ve seen young Americans greatly improve their lives because they were able to join a team and play sports,” said Rep. Kelly. “This bill gives kids, especially those in underserved or low-income communities, a real chance to play the sport of their choice. This isn’t just about athletics: it’s about gaining critical team-building and character-building traits that stay with kids for the rest of their lives.”

“Too many working families are forced to cut back on healthy activities and lifestyles due to the rising costs of sports leagues, gym memberships, local swimming pools, and more,” said Rep. Panetta. “The PHIT Act provides a practical solution by allowing families to use pre-tax dollars from their HSA and FSA accounts to help pay for fitness expenses. By breaking down financial barriers, we can encourage healthier habits, strengthen our communities, and invest in preventive care that lasts a lifetime.”

“For some Americans, certain gym or athletic league membership costs can be prohibitive, keeping them from pursuing healthy habits like exercising or participating in other physical activities,” said Sen. Thune. “The PHIT Act would reduce some of the cost barriers that Americans face when pursuing healthy lifestyles and make it easier and more affordable for folks to stay active throughout their lives. By giving Americans greater flexibility with their HSAs and FSAs, we can empower people to make healthy choices, get active, and hopefully prevent the onset of costly chronic conditions as we work to make America healthy again.”

“The National Football League (NFL) is pleased to support the PHIT Act, which is sensible, bipartisan legislation that makes participation in youth sports and physical activity more accessible and affordable,” said Brendon Plack, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs at the NFL. “Encouraging America’s youth to adopt active lifestyles and healthy habits has been a cornerstone of the league’s commitment to community, and the PHIT Act helps to further advance that important goal.”

“Sports, exercise, and recreation are essential to the physical and mental well-being of Americans of all ages,” said Todd Smith, President and CEO of the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). “The PHIT Act is a forward-thinking, bipartisan solution that will make these activities more affordable and accessible, helping to build healthier communities and a stronger future for sports and fitness participation. As we head into this next decade of once-in-a-generation sporting events taking place in the U.S., we especially look forward to working together to pass the PHIT Act and expand opportunities for all.”

“Preventative health solutions are more important than ever, and physical activity is a proven, cost-effective way to make Americans healthier,” said Liz Clark, President and CEO of the Health & Fitness Association. “The PHIT Act is a commonsense solution that will make it easier for individuals and families to invest in their health by making fitness more affordable.”

"On behalf of the more than 2600 YMCAs who every day help build healthy spirit, minds and bodies for all and strengthen community by connecting people to their potential, purpose and each other….This legislation recognizes the chronic disease crisis our nation confronts and prioritizes prevention by providing new financial incentives for individuals and families to better access physical activity, exercise programs and sports in community facilities like the YMCA," said Jeff Britt, SVP, Chief Government Affairs Officer, YMCA of the USA.

The PHIT Act reflects a growing, bipartisan recognition that prevention is key to building a healthier nation — and that empowering individuals to take charge of their wellness is one of the most impactful investments we can make.

The full bill can be read here.