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ACTION for National Service Act
3/5/2024, 8:15 AM
Summary of Bill HR 1588
The main provisions of the bill include increasing funding for AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and other national service programs. This funding would be used to support more volunteers and service opportunities across the country.
Additionally, the bill seeks to create new national service programs focused on addressing specific community needs, such as education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. These programs would provide opportunities for individuals of all ages to give back to their communities and gain valuable skills and experience. The ACTION for National Service Act also includes provisions to improve the recruitment and retention of volunteers, as well as to increase the diversity and inclusivity of national service programs. This would ensure that individuals from all backgrounds have the opportunity to participate in service activities and make a positive impact in their communities. Overall, the bill aims to promote a culture of service and civic engagement in the United States, while also addressing critical needs in communities across the country. Supporters of the bill argue that investing in national service programs is a cost-effective way to address social challenges and strengthen communities.
Congressional Summary of HR 1588
America's Call To Improve Opportunities Now for National Service Act or the ACTION for National Service Act
This bill reauthorizes and revises various national and community volunteer service programs.
Specifically, it (1) renames the Corporation for National and Community Service as the AmeriCorps Administration, converts it from a government corporation into an executive department, and revises its membership, leadership, and authority; (2) reauthorizes programs carried out by the administration; (3) establishes a National Service Foundation to accept and administer gifts on behalf of the administration; (4) generally increases the living allowance amounts for program participants and excludes the amounts from taxable income; and (5) makes the national service educational award amount equal to twice the national average yearly cost for in-state tuition and fees at public, four-year institutions of higher education.
Additionally, the bill creates an interagency Civilian Climate Corps, operated by the administration, to conduct service projects addressing climate change.
