American lawmakers want you to get off the couch and start being more active. Specific legislation is currently pending in both the House and the Senate that would allow skiers and snowboarders to pay for for lift tickets, season passes, ski equipment, and more with pre-tax dollars.
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Qualified sports and fitness expenses are defined as “amounts paid exclusively for the sole purpose of participating in a physical activity, including: (1) for membership at a fitness facility, (2) for participation or instruction in physical exercise or activity, or (3) for equipment used in a program (including a self-directed program) of physical exercise or activity,” according to the text of SB2218.
So yes, if this bill passes you could use pre-tax dollars to pay for lift tickets, a season pass, new ski shoes or even a pair of powder boards.
“The outdoor and snow sports industries play a critical role in Utah’s economy and I’m pleased that the Health Savings Act of 2016 contains provisions that provide more choice to athletes and outdoorsmen,” explains Sen. Orrin Hatch (Republican – Utah). “One provision in particular would change the current definition of ‘medical care’ to include certain physical exercise equipment and health coaching, giving more individuals the flexibility to use their HSA accounts to live a healthy lifestyle.”
For more information on the PHIT Act or to lend your voice, visit www.passthePHITact.org.