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Girl Scouts membership fees could increase for the first time in nearly a decade

Girl Scouts of the USA says membership fees are its largest source of revenue, not the sales of its famous cookies.
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Families with children in Girl Scouts could soon be paying more for the organization's annual membership dues — 240% more.

According to a statement cited by CNN, delegates of the Girl Scouts of the USA’s National Council will vote Saturday on whether to raise dues for the first time in eight years.

The proposed increase would raise yearly fees from $25 to $85. Girl Scouts of the USA says its largest source of revenue comes from the dues, and not by selling its famous cookies.

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Troop leaders have said they believe the membership fee increase could put a financial strain on families, causing troops to have issues, possibly including losing members.

In addition to fees, members often have to buy their own uniforms which are different for each age group.

The youth organization has increased the price of its cookies over the years, costing as much as $7 per box in some states. Individual Girl Scouts councils set the prices of their cookies.

Girl Scouts has also changed its cookie-selling strategy since the pandemic, with the added option to buy their cookies online.