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Enhanced Benefits for Peace Corps and AmeriCorps Volunteers

This act expands financial, healthcare, and educational benefits for current and former Peace Corps and AmeriCorps volunteers. Citizens choosing to serve can expect improved employment opportunities after service, access to healthcare, increased allowances, and student loan relief, aiming to encourage participation and ease their transition back to civilian life.
Key points
Peace Corps and AmeriCorps volunteers will have easier access to civilian federal jobs for 3 years after their service.
Extended healthcare access: former Peace Corps volunteers will get one year of VA healthcare, and former AmeriCorps volunteers will retain their service-period health policy for one year.
Increased financial benefits: Peace Corps monthly stipends will rise from $125 to $425 and be paid regularly, with these allowances becoming tax-exempt. AmeriCorps volunteers will receive a living allowance of at least 200% of the poverty line.
Student loan relief: federal student loan payments and interest will be suspended during service, and this period will count towards loan forgiveness programs.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness program expanded to include Peace Corps and AmeriCorps service.
More AmeriCorps positions (at least 500,000) and options for shorter service terms.
Refugees, asylees, and lawful permanent residents can serve in Peace Corps and AmeriCorps and receive associated benefits.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_2785
Sponsor: Sen. Kim, Andy [D-NJ]
Process start date: 2025-09-11
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

A Chance To Serve Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_S_2785.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-09-11.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Peace Corps and AmeriCorps volunteers will have easier access to civilian federal jobs for 3 years after their service.
  • Extended healthcare access: former Peace Corps volunteers will get one year of VA healthcare, and former AmeriCorps volunteers will retain their service-period health policy for one year.
  • Increased financial benefits: Peace Corps monthly stipends will rise from $125 to $425 and be paid regularly, with these allowances becoming tax-exempt. AmeriCorps volunteers will receive a living allowance of at least 200% of the poverty line.
  • Student loan relief: federal student loan payments and interest will be suspended during service, and this period will count towards loan forgiveness programs.
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness program expanded to include Peace Corps and AmeriCorps service.
  • More AmeriCorps positions (at least 500,000) and options for shorter service terms.
  • Refugees, asylees, and lawful permanent residents can serve in Peace Corps and AmeriCorps and receive associated benefits.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Kim, Andy [D-NJ].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Education Labor