STRONG Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Owens, Burgess [R-UT-4]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 29, 2026
Bottom line
The STRONG Act mandates that the OMB consider creating a distinct occupational classification for strength and conditioning coaches to enhance professional recognition and data collection.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to consider establishing a separate occupational code for strength and conditioning coaches within the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system. This consideration must occur during the first revision of the SOC system after the bill's enactment. If OMB decides against creating the code, the Director must submit a report to specific congressional committees explaining the decision.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that strength and conditioning coaches possess unique skills, education, and certifications that differentiate them from other occupations like athletic trainers or physical therapists. Establishing a separate SOC code would correct an inaccurate representation, recognize their specialized work with athletes, law enforcement, first responders, and military personnel, and improve data collection for this growing profession, ultimately contributing to better physical performance and injury prevention.
Opponents contend
Potential critics might raise concerns about the administrative burden of frequently revising the Standard Occupational Classification system for highly specialized professions. They might argue that existing broader categories are sufficient for statistical purposes and that creating too many niche classifications could lead to an overly complex and less efficient system, potentially setting a precedent for other specialized groups to demand their own codes.
The bill is very short and clearly written, allowing for a quick and thorough understanding of its provisions.
Section 3
Requirement for OMB to Consider SOC System Revision
This section requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to evaluate and potentially revise the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system. Specifically, OMB must consider establishing a new, separate code for 'strength and conditioning coaches' as a detailed occupation within the existing 'Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations' group. This evaluation is to take place during the first scheduled revision of the SOC system following the bill's enactment.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this provision is crucial for accurately reflecting the unique skills, education, and contributions of strength and conditioning coaches, who play a vital role in public health, athletic performance, and safety for various sectors. A distinct code would enable better workforce data, inform educational programs, and facilitate research specific to this profession.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that while the goal of accurate classification is laudable, mandating consideration for specific occupations could create an administrative burden on OMB and potentially lead to an overly granular and unwieldy SOC system if many other specialized professions seek similar legislative directives.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire for highly specific and accurate occupational data for a particular profession against the need for a manageable and broadly applicable federal classification system, and the administrative effort involved in its revision.
Section 4
Report to Congress if Code Not Established
This section stipulates that if the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) decides not to establish a separate occupational code for strength and conditioning coaches after the required consideration, the Director must submit a report to Congress. This report, due within 30 days of the SOC system's first revision after the bill's enactment, must explain the reasons for the decision to the House Committee on Education and Workforce and the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs.