Local 4-H Kids Attend Texas 4-H Congress

Texas 4-H Congress was held in Austin at the State Capitol July 14-17. Texas 4-H Congress is a four-day mock legislative experience for 4-H members in grades 9 to 12 where 4-H members assume the roles of legislators, lobbyists, and press corps to gain a first-hand understanding of how the legislative process works. Each participant writes and submits their own bill to be taken through the legislative process that week. Bills that are written and sponsored by 4-H members focus on issues concerning Texas and Texas youth.

Texas 4-H Congress is held every two years for senior- level 4-H members who are selected through their District to attend the event.

The four-day event began on Sunday with delegate meetings at the Sheraton Austin Hotel. The event then moved into the Capitol Monday and Tuesday for sessions.

“Texas 4-H Congress is the event where 4-H members learn about the governmental processes by writing and debating bills. Of course, the goal is to have your specific bill reach the office of the 4-H Governor so that it could become “law.” This mock legislative event is a great way for experiential learning to happen at its finest,” Texas 4-H Youth Development Program Director, Montza Williams said. “Tackling issues that are important to the membership and having the opportunity to discuss those issues with people who may or may not agree with you is a skill that every person needs to learn. These youth are our future, and we will be better off as they learn more about how government works.”

Youth from Fayette County 4-H participated in the 2024 Texas 4-H Congress. The youth who attended were: Reagan Moreau, Harper Mau, Logan Poncik and Cooper Mau. Cooper Mau served on the Leadership Team and was Speaker of the House.

Around 300 youth and chaperones from the Texas 4-H program are expected to attend the event.