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Peace Corps Support: Health, Safety, and Employment for Volunteers

This act aims to enhance support for current and returned Peace Corps volunteers. It introduces changes concerning healthcare, safety, financial allowances, and facilitates their return to service and employment after their missions. It also strengthens protection against retaliation and expands the scope of the advisory council.
Key points
Increased financial allowances for volunteers and volunteer leaders (from $125 to $375).
Establishment of clear processes for volunteers whose service is interrupted by emergencies or global crises to safely return to service.
Expanded access to healthcare, including consultations with mental health experts and medication guidelines.
Facilitated federal employment for returned volunteers by extending noncompetitive eligibility periods, accounting for hiring freezes or funding lapses.
Implementation of a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drug use by volunteers.
Strengthened protection for volunteers against reprisal for reporting misconduct, including appeal rights.
Expanded duties of the Peace Corps National Advisory Council to include diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, and reducing financial barriers.
Requirement for regular review and update of the Memorandum of Agreement with the Bureau of Diplomatic Security for volunteer safety.
Expansion of Peace Corps service opportunities in Oceania countries, focusing on climate resilience and infrastructure.
Introduction of unpaid suspension for Peace Corps employees for serious misconduct, with appeal rights.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_1273
Sponsor: Rep. Garamendi, John [D-CA-8]
Process start date: 2023-03-01