Girl Scouts Consider Tripling Membership Fees to Address Financial Challenges

The proposed fee increase aims to offset growing deficits and declining membership, with a vote scheduled for this weekend.

The Girl Scouts of the USA are proposing a 240% increase in annual membership dues, from $25 to $85, to address financial deficits.
The organization ended the 2023 fiscal year with a $4.4 million deficit, which is expected to rise to $5.6 million in 2024.
Membership has declined in recent years, partly due to competition from the Boy Scouts and the impact of the pandemic.
The fee hike is intended to cover rising costs, support local councils, and improve program delivery for current and future members.
Critics argue the increase is too steep and could exclude many families, potentially leading to further declines in membership.