National Service Support: Enhanced Opportunities and Benefits for Volunteers
This act transforms the agency responsible for volunteer programs into the AmeriCorps Administration, expanding its operational capabilities. It introduces higher educational awards and living allowances for participants, and establishes a new Civilian Climate Corps focused on climate change and environmental protection projects. The goal is to encourage more individuals to engage in national service and support communities.
Key points
Higher Educational Awards: AmeriCorps participants will receive educational awards equal to twice the national average annual cost of in-state tuition at public, four-year higher education institutions.
Increased Living Allowances: Monthly living allowances for volunteers are increased, improving their living conditions during service.
New Civilian Climate Corps: A new program is established focusing on environmental protection, climate change adaptation, and supporting communities most affected by climate impacts.
Tax Exemptions: Educational awards and living allowances received through national service programs will be exempt from income tax.
Increased Participation Goal: The act aims to increase the number of national service participants to one million annually by 2031, opening new opportunities for citizens.
Recruitment Facilitation: An outreach program will be implemented to inform young individuals about national service opportunities.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_3622
Sponsor: Sen. Reed, Jack [D-RI]
Process start date: 2022-02-09