Updates — 111th Congress
Senate Appropriators Recommend $1.366B for CNCS
Appropriation is $215.9M above FY10 enacted, $60M above House mark, and $50M below President’s request
On July 27, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved a FY 2011 spending bill that includes $1.366 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). This would be an increase of $215.9 million (18.8%) above the FY 2010 enacted level. Earlier this month, the House Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee approved a budget for CNCS of $1.305 billion, approximately $60 million below the Senate subcommittee mark. (This level must still be considered by the full House Appropriations Committee.) Both the House subcommittee and the Senate committee marks fall short of the President's requested level of $1.416 billion.
The following is a breakdown of the funding levels approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee:
- Learn and Serve America: $40.2 million ($0.7 million above FY10, equal to the President’s request), including funding to continue Summer of Service activities
- AmeriCorps*NCCC: $35.6 million ($6.6 million above FY10, $1.0 million above the President’s request)
- AmeriCorps*State and National: $440.0 million ($67.5 million above FY10, $48.0 million below the President’s request) for 97,000 positions, an increase of 10,000 from FY10
- AmeriCorps*VISTA: $111.0 million ($11.9 million above FY10, $13.0 million above the President’s request)
- National Service Trust: $271.2 million ($74.2 million above FY10, $22.5 million below the President’s request)
- State Commission Administrative Grants: $18.0 million ($1.0 million above FY10, equal to the President’s request)
- Senior Corps: $229.1 million ($8.2 million above FY10, $8 million above the President’s request)
- RSVP: $64.0 million ($1.0 million above FY10, $1.0 million above the President’s request)
- Foster Grandparent: $115.6 million ($4.6 million above FY10, $4.5 million above the President’s request)
- Senior Companion: $49.5 million ($2.6 million above FY10, $2.5 million above the President’s request)
- Social Innovation Fund: $60.0 million ($10.0 million above FY10, equal to the President’s request)
- Volunteer Generation Fund: $10.0 million ($6.0 million above FY10, equal to the President’s request)
Voices for National Service reminds our partners that frequent and ongoing engagement of your elected officials is critically important. Please invite Members of Congress to visit your program or participate in a day of service. These decision-makers need to see your work and impact firsthand. This is our best opportunity to build support for national service expansion to meet the extraordinary demand and fully realize the potential of the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act.
Voices for National Service will continue to monitor the appropriations process and keep the field updated as details emerge. Congress will have to make tough decisions on national funding priorities, while they try to impose discipline on spending and reduce the deficit. Legislators must hear from constituents who are closely watching the levels appropriated to CNCS.
- Please contact your Members of Congress and ask them to support the President’s FY 2011 request. Share stories of impact from communities across the country and help make the case for a strong federal investment in national service. To find out more about how to reach out to your elected officials, click here.
- Click here to read more about the House LHHS recommendation.
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Legislative Update, July 28, 2010
On July 28, Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) introduced an amendment to H.R. 5297, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010. The legislation would make the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award tax-free by excluding it from consideration as gross income. Senators Thad Cochran (R-MS), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) cosponsored the amendment, S.Amdt. 4541. In March 2009, Representatives John Lewis (D-GA) and Charles Boustany (R-LA) introduced H.R. 1596, legislation to provide the same tax relieft to AmeriCorps alumni. The Lewis-Boustany bill was referred to the House Ways and Means Committee.
H.R. 5297 aims to create the Small Business Lending Program to increase the availability of credit for small businesses, and to amend the tax code to provide incentives for job creation. It was passed in the House of Representatives by a roll call vote (241-182) in June 2010. It is currently under consideration on the floor of the Senate.
Legislative Update, July 27, 2010
On July 27, the Senate Labor-Health and Human Services-Education Appropriations Subcommittee approved a draft spending bill that includes $1.366 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). This would be an increase of $215.9 million (18.8%) above the FY 2010 enacted level. Earlier this month, the House LHHS Appropriations Subcommittee approved a budget for CNCS of $1.305 billion, approximately $60 million below the Senate subcommittee mark. Both the House and Senate subcommittees are recommending funding levels below the President's requested level of $1.416 billion.
According to the bill summary, the Senate's appropriation would increase AmeriCorps participation from 87,000 members in 2010 to 97,000 in 2011. Further details, including the funding breakdown by program, will be available after the full Senate Appropriations Committee considers the LHHS bill on Thursday, July 29.
- Click here for the FY 2011 bill summary approved by the Senate LHHS Appropriations Subcommittee.
Legislative Update, July 15, 2010
House LHHS Reports Out FY11 Bill, Including CNCS Appropriations
On July 15, the House Labor-Health and Human Services-Education Appropriations Subcommittee approved a draft spending bill that includes $1.305 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). While this is a critical $155 million (13.5%) increase, the allocation falls short of the President's requested level by $111 million.
At this time, the committee has only released a bill summary. Detailed information with funding allocations by program is not yet available.
- Click here to read the prepared remarks of Chairman David Obey (D-WI).
- Click here for the FY 2011 table of Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations recommendations, including the Corporation for National and Community Service.
- Click here to read a March 2010 letter from 55 Members of the U.S. House of Representatives urging the House Labor-HHS Appropriations leadership to fully fund the President's FY 2011 budget request for the Corporation for National and Community Service.
- Click here to read an April 2010 letter from 18 Senators urging the Senate Labor-HHS Appropriations leadership to fully fund the President's FY 2011 budget request for the Corporation for National and Community Service.
There are many steps left in the appropriations process before final funding levels are enacted. The full House Appropriations Committee will hold a second mark-up of the bill (date to be announced), and the Senate committees must meet. Voices for National Service will continue to monitor the appropriations process and keep the field updated as details emerge.
House Committee Approves Legislation to Create Nutrition Corps
On July 15, the House Committee on Education and Labor marked up H.R.5504, the Improving Nutrition for America’s Children Act, reporting the bill to the full House of Representatives by a vote of 32-13. The bill’s purpose is to reauthorize child nutrition programs and includes a new Nutrition Corps, using national service members to improve nutrition education and meal assistance programs in America’s schools. The Nutrition Corps amendment was sponsored by Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY), Chairwoman of the House Healthy Families and Communities Subcommittee.
According to the amendment’s text, the Nutrition Corps would “address unmet health needs within communities by providing services that improve access to, and increase participation in, nutrition assistance programs.” This work could include the following:
- Assisting with the implementation of in-classroom and summer meal programs at schools
- Training nutrition-assistance providers
- Promoting healthy food choices and physical activity among children
- Performing community needs assessments as part of programs to reduce obesity, promote healthy eating, and end childhood hunger
- Bring together community stakeholders to plan coordinated cross-sector nutrition programs
H.R.5504 was introduced by Chairman George Miller (D-CA) of the Education and Labor Committee, and it has 44 co-sponsors.
- Click here to read Chairwoman McCarthy’s amendment to H.R.5504, which would establish a Nutrition Corps.
- Click here for more information on H.R.5504, the Improving Nutrition for America’s Children Act (from the House Committee on Education and Labor).
Legislative Update, May 13, 2010
On May 13, the House of Representatives passed H. Res. 1338, “Recognizing the significant accomplishments of AmeriCorps and encouraging all citizens to join in a national effort to raise awareness about the importance of national and community service.” The measure needed support from two-thirds of the House, and it successfully cleared that margin, 280-128. H. Res. 1338 was introduced by the Co-Chairs of the National Service Congressional Caucus in the House – Reps. Doris Matsui (D-CA), Todd Platts (R-PA), David Price (D-NC), and Vernon Ehlers (R-MI) – and had 42 additional co-sponsors.
Rep. Ehlers spoke on the House floor in support of AmeriCorps and its leveraging impact in his hometown:
Americans have a long history of service to each other and to their country, and AmeriCorps creates a web of opportunities for Americans to serve. I saw ample evidence of this just yesterday when I participated in a ceremony in Grand Rapids, Michigan, my hometown. It was just striking to me what a multiplier effect we have with the AmeriCorps program…. [W]e were getting so much for so little Federal money because the AmeriCorps people working there who did receive some Federal funds had, in fact, recruited a large number of other people to work with them, and so we accomplished a great deal in my community with very, very little Federal funding. I think that serves as a model for the Nation.
A similar resolution, S. Res. 516, was introduced and agreed to in the Senate on May 7th.
- Click here to read H. Res. 1338, “Recognizing the significant accomplishments of AmeriCorps and encouraging all citizens to join in a national effort to raise awareness about the importance of national and community service.”
- Click here to see how Representatives voted on H. Res. 1338.
- Click here to read remarks by Reps. Ehlers, Matsui, Dina Titus (D-NV), Dave Loebsack (D-IA), and David Wu (D-OR) in support of H. Res. 1338.
Legislative Update, May 7, 2010
On the eve of AmeriCorps Week (May 8-15), the Senate passed S. Res. 516, “Recognizing the contributions of AmeriCorps members to the lives of the people of the United States.” The resolution was introduced by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and co-sponsored by Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-CT), and it passed unanimously.
A similar resolution, H. Res. 1338, was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 6th.
- Click here to read S. Res. 516, "Recognizing the contributions of AmeriCorps members to the lives of the people of the United States."
- Click here to read H. Res. 1338, “Recognizing the significant accomplishments of AmeriCorps and encouraging all citizens to join in a national effort to raise awareness about the importance of national and community service,” as submitted.
Legislative Update, April 21, 2010
On the first anniversary of the Serve America Act – April 21, 2010 – the House of Representatives passed H. Res. 1276, "Recognizing the continued importance of volunteerism and national service and the anniversary of the signing of the landmark service legislation, the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act." Introduced by Rep. George Miller (D-CA), the resolution had 30 co-sponsors and passed by a voice vote.
During the debate, Rep. Judy Biggert (R-IL) spoke about the impact of service and volunteerism on individuals, communities, and our country:
Albert Einstein once said, “A person starts to live when he can live outside himself.” Regardless of one’s age or background, education or interests, experience or abilities, every American should have the chance to serve because all have something to contribute to the greater good.
- Click here to read the H. Res. 1276, "Recognizing the continued importance of volunteerism and national service and commemorating the anniversary of the signing of the landmark service legislation, the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act."
- Click here to read floor remarks delivered by Rep. Judy Biggert (R-IL), Rep. John Conyers (D-MI), and Rep. Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (D-Northern Marinas Islands) in support of H. Res. 1276.
Legislative Update, March 15, 2010
On March 15, 2010, the Senate unanimously passed S.Res. 449, a resolution celebrating the 45th anniversary of VISTA and its ongoing contributions to the fight against poverty in America. The resolution was introduced by Senators Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) – himself an alumnus of the VISTA program – and Thad Cochran (R-MS). A similar resolution in the House of Representatives has been introduced by Representative Gwen Moore (D-WI) and co-sponsored by Representative Howard Berman (D-CA).
In discussing the resolution, Senator Rockefeller reflected on the transformative effect that his VISTA service had on his life and career: “When I look back on VISTA beginnings, I see my own roots – the foundation on which I have built the rest of my life. Everything that I have done in my career in public office has been grounded in the VISTA experience and in those kids and families who taught me so much about life.”
- Click here to read a press release from the Corporation for National and Community Service on the passage of S.Res. 449.
Legislative Update, February 12, 2010
On February 12, 2010, President Obama appointed Patrick Corvington as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), one day after the Senate confirmed Mr. Corvington by unanimous consent. The President initially nominated Mr. Corvington in October 2009.
- Click here for a CNCS press release on Patrick Corvington’s confirmation.
- Click here for a message from Steven Goldsmith, Chairman of the Board of Directors at CNCS, on the transition of leadership at the agency.
Legislative Update, February 1, 2010
On February 1, 2010, President Obama released his Administration's budget for fiscal year 2011, including $1.416 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). This is an increase of $266 million or 23.1% above the FY 2010 enacted level.
Highlights of the President’s FY 2011 budget include the following:
- AmeriCorps: The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act set AmeriCorps on a growth path to 250,000 by 2017. The FY11 request would keep the program on that trajectory by funding over 105,000 members in 2011, an increase of 20,000 from 2010.
- $488 million for AmeriCorps State and National ($115 million above FY10)
- $98 million for AmeriCorps VISTA ($1.1 million below FY10)
- $34.6 million for AmeriCorps NCCC ($5.6 million above FY10)
- $293.7 million for the National Service Trust Fund ($96.7 million above FY10)
- Social Innovation Fund: $60 million ($10 million above FY10)
- Volunteer Generation Fund: $10 million ($6 million above FY10)
- State Commission Administrative Grants: $18 million ($1 million above FY10)
- Learn and Serve America: $40.2 million ($698,000 above FY10)
- Senior Corps: $221 million for the three Senior Corps programs
- $63 million for RSVP (no change from FY10)
- $111 million for the Foster Grandparent Program ($104,000 above FY10)
- $47 million for the Senior Companion Program ($96,000 above FY10)
Voices for National Service will remain engaged, reaching out to the Administration and Congress, urging them to continue the growth and development of service and volunteerism as authorized in the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act.
- Click here for a statement on the President's FY 2011 budget from Nicky Goren, Acting CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service.
- Click here for the budget justification (3.94 MB, PDF).
- Click here for more information on the FY 2011 budget from CNCS.
- Click here to read more about the President’s FY 2011 budget from The Chronicle of Philanthropy.
Legislative Update, January 13, 2010
On Wednesday, January 13, the House of Representatives unanimously passed H.Res. 1002, a resolution “honoring the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and encouraging the continued commitment to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a national day of service.” The bill was sponsored by the co-chairs of the National Service Caucus in the House: Representatives Todd Platts (R-PA), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Vernon Ehlers (R-MI), and David Price (D-NC).
In its introduction, the resolution recognizes that “serving one's community for the betterment of every individual speaks to the high character, transformative world view, and everyday practice of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” It continues: “The efforts of national service volunteers have been a steadfast foundation of our Nation's infrastructure, supporting not only individuals and families in need, but acting in response to national catastrophes and natural disasters.”
Representative Platts, who introduced H.Res. 1002, said, “As we reflect on the great gift of compassion and selflessness that Dr. King has given us in both his life and death, may we remember his words, ‘Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.’” Representative Price encouraged Americans not to limit their service to one day: “Treating this day as a ‘day on, not a day off,’ by taking part in service projects is a fitting way to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. In fact, I expect he would encourage us to seek out opportunities for public service and civic engagement each and every day.”
Click on the following links to read press releases on the passage of H.Res. 1002:
- Click here for more information on the National Service Congressional Caucus.
Legislative Update, December 16, 2009
Congress Approves, President Signs Historic Appropriations for Service and Social Innovation
The House of Representatives and the Senate have passed H.R. 3288, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2010, including $1.149 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). This figure fully funds the President's request for fiscal year 2010 and is the largest appropriation in CNCS history. The Consolidated Appropriations Act is a massive spending package that encompasses six of the seven unfinished appropriations bills, in total providing $446.8 billion in discretionary spending. It was signed into law by President Obama on December 16.
The following is a breakdown of the funding levels included in the FY10 Omnibus:
- Learn and Serve America: $39.5 million; includes $2 million to support 2,000 middle school students for a new Summer of Service program
- Senior Corps: $220.9 million
- AmeriCorps State and National: $372.5 million; supports 85,000 AmeriCorps members, an increase of 10,000 from fiscal year 2009
- National Service Trust: $197 million
- Innovation, Demonstration and Assistance: $60.5 million; includes $4 million for volunteer recruitment efforts and $50 million for the new Social Innovation Fund, which would take successful projects and programs to scale and leverage additional capital from the private sector
- State Commission Administration Grants: $17 million
- National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC): $29 million
- VISTA: $99.1 million
The FY 2010 budget process began last May, when President Obama submitted a budget request of $1.149 billion for the Corporation and its programs, a 29 percent increase over the FY 2009 enacted level. The House of Representatives recommended $1.059 billion for the Corporation in the Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill passed on July 24. A week later, the Senate Appropriations Committee marked up a Labor-HHS-Education bill that included $1.157 billion. These differences were reconciled by the House and Senate in December, and the agency was finally approved for $1.149 billion for FY 2010.
- Click here to read a statement from Voices for National Service on the passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2010.
- Click here for a press release from the Corporation for National and Community Service on Congressional approval of the agency's FY 2010 budget.
- Click here for more information on the FY 2010 budget from the Corporation for National and Community Service.
- Click here for a complete budget summary chart for the Corporation for National and Community Service, including a comparison of FY 2010 Omnibus, House, Senate, and Administration figures.
- Click here for news coverage of Fiscal Year 2010 appropriations.
House Passes H.R. 2847, Jobs for Main Street Act
On Wednesday, December 16, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2847, the Jobs for Main Street Act of 2010, by a vote of 217-212. The bill aims to create and save jobs as well as help the unemployed while they seek work. The Jobs for Main Street Act includes $200 million for the Corporation for National and Community Service, which could fund an estimated 22,000 national service positions in AmeriCorps*State and National and AmeriCorps*VISTA. The Senate is expected to consider H.R. 2847 in early 2010.
- Click here for more information from the House Committee on Education and Labor, including a fact sheet on the Jobs for Main Street Act and the bill text.
- Click here to see how representatives voted on H.R. 2847.
- Click here to read more about H.R. 2847 in the Chronicle of Philanthropy.
Legislative Update, December 13, 2009
On Sunday, December 13, the Senate passed H.R. 3288, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2010, including the largest appropriation in the history of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The House of Representatives already passed the Omnibus on December 10, and now it awaits President Obama’s signature to become law.
Legislative Update, December 10, 2009
On Thursday, December 10, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3288, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2010, including $1.149 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). Following the House vote, Congress moved one step closer to finishing their work on FY10 appropriations. The bill now awaits passage by the Senate before it can be sent to the President to sign into law.
Legislative Update, December 8, 2009
On Tuesday, December 8, a conference committee of House and Senate negotiators agreed to a Fiscal Year 2010 Omnibus, a massive spending package which includes six of the seven remaining appropriations bills. The legislation provides $446.8 billion in discretionary spending, including $1.149 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). The recommendation matches the President's request for CNCS and exceeds FY09 service appropriations by $260 million. This funding – the largest appropriation in the CNCS history – will strengthen existing programs and begin to invest in the new initiatives authorized in the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act.
The Omnibus bill must now be passed by both chambers of Congress. The current Continuing Resolution (CR) expires on December 18th, though Congress could approve another CR to keep agencies funded if the Omnibus is not passed and signed into law in time.
- Click here for the Conference Summary on FY10 appropriations for Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, including the Corporation for National and Community Service, from the House Appropriations Committee.
- Click here for more information on the FY10 Omnibus Spending Bill from Congressional Quarterly.
Legislative Update, October 29, 2009
On October 29th, both the Senate and the House approved an extension of the Continuing Resolution (CR). This extension keeps the government agencies, including the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), funded through December 18th. The CR was included in the fiscal year 2010 Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (H.R. 2996).
Though fiscal year 2010 began on October 1st, only four of the twelve FY10 appropriations bills have thus far been enacted. The CR will prevent a government shutdown, as most discretionary spending programs will continue operating at FY09 levels until the current CR expires.
- Click here to read an October letter from 52 Members of the U.S. House of Representatives urging the House Labor-HHS Appropriations leadership to provide $1.157 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service in fiscal year 2010.
Legislative Update, September 30, 2009
On September 30th, the Senate approved a Continuing Resolution (CR), a stop-gap measure that will keep the government agencies, including the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), funded through October 31st. The CR was included in the fiscal year 2010 Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill. The House approved the same bill on September 25th.
Although the new fiscal year begins today, October 1st, most of the twelve FY10 appropriations bills have not been enacted. The CR will prevent a government shutdown, as most discretionary spending programs will continue operating at FY09 levels through the month.
Back in July, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved a FY10 Labor-HHS Appropriations bill that includes $1.157 billion for CNCS, $257 million above the FY09 level. While the House of Representatives also approved an increase for CNCS, the Senate bill meets the Administration’s request and begins to invest in national service, social innovation, and volunteering as approved by Congress in the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act.
As Congress continues to work towards completing the FY10 appropriations bills, supporters of the Serve America Act should express support for the funding levels approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee. The Senate mark represents the largest appropriation in the history of the Corporation for National and Community Service and would create opportunities for thousands more to serve.
- Click here for more information on how to contact Congress and discuss the federal investment in service and volunteering.
Legislative Update, September 9, 2009
On Wednesday, September 9, the House of Representatives passed H.Res.718, a resolution recognizing September 11th as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. The resolution, introduced by Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA), Rep. Peter King (R-NY), and 76 co-sponsors, “calls upon all Americans to engage in community service and contribute to local projects in their neighborhoods on September 11th in tribute to those who selflessly served their communities during the attacks,” according to a joint press release from the co-sponsors.
“On September 11th, we remember the thousands of innocent Americans who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks, and pay tribute to the brave men and women who rose to service in a heroic attempt to protect the lives of those still at risk,” said Rep. Matsui. “This year we will honor them not only by remembering their heroism, but by recommitting ourselves to bettering our communities and our country.”
“The terrorist attacks of 9/11 are some of the deadliest and most horrific events our nation has ever seen, yet in the midst of that tragedy our nation came together – stronger than ever before,” said King. “By making 9/11 a national day of service, Americans can unite as they did eight years ago in the spirit and memory of the heroes and victims lost in these tragic attacks.”
- Click here to read the full press release on the passage of H.Res.718.
Legislative Update, July 30, 2009
On Thursday, July 30, the Senate Appropriations Committee reported out the FY2010 Labor-HHS Appropriations Bill, which includes $1.157 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service. The figure is $8 million above President Obama’s request for CNCS and $98 million more than the House of Representatives approved last week.
- Click here to read the press release on FY10 recommendations from the Senate Appropriations Committee.
- Click here to read the Statement of Administration Policy on H.R. 3293, the FY10 Labor-HHS Appropriations Bill.
- Click here to read a press release from Nicola Goren, Acting CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service.
The Labor-HHS Appropriations Bill has been reported to the Senate floor and will be considered after the August recess. We should use this time when lawmakers are in their districts to reach out to our members of Congress, emphasize the impact of national service in our communities, and urge Congress to fund CNCS at the levels recommended by the Senate Appropriations Committee.
- Click here for more information on how to contact your legislators to express support for the Senate’s recommendation ($1.157B) for the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Legislative Update, July 28, 2009
On Tuesday, July 28, the Senate Labor, Health & Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee reported out a funding package that includes $1.157 billion in fiscal year 2010 for the Corporation for National and Community Service, representing the largest appropriation ever for national service. The figure is $8 million above President Obama’s request for CNCS and $98 million more than the House of Representatives approved last week.
- Click here to read the press release on FY10 recommendations from the Senate Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee.
The full Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on the Labor-HHS bill is scheduled for Thursday, July 30.
Legislative Update, July 17, 2009
On Friday, July 17th, the House Appropriations Committee reported out the FY2010 Labor-HHS Appropriations Bill, underfunding the President's request for CNCS by $90 million. During the markup session, two amendments were offered by Rep. Tiahrt (R-KS) and Rep. Rehberg (R-MT) that proposed to cut or restrict CNCS funding. Both amendments were defeated, 22-37.
- Click here for a bill summary from the House Appropriations Committee.
- Click here for a table of terminations and reductions in the Labor-HHS-Education bill.
The House is expected to begin floor debate on the Labor-HHS Appropriations bill on July 24. The first Senate LHHS Subcommittee meeting is scheduled for July 28th. It is critical that we contact our Senators immediately and urge them to support the President's request for national service funding.
- Click here for information on how to contact your legislators to express your support for the President’s full budget request ($1.149 billion) for CNCS.
Legislative Update, July 10, 2009
On Friday, July 10, 2009, the House Labor, Health & Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee reported out a funding package that includes $1.059 billion in fiscal year 2010 for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). While this figure is a $169 million increase to implement the new Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, the allocation falls short of the President's requested level ($1.149B) by $90 million.
In his prepared statement, Chairman David Obey (D-WI) referred to the President's "call for Americans to serve their communities and country" and said that the Labor-HHS "Subcommittee will consider further expansion of service and volunteer programs once the Corporation for National and Community Service has demonstrated that it has made improvements in its internal operations."
- Click here to read Chairman Obey's full statement.
- Click here for the FY2010 table of Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations recommendations, including the Corporation for National and Community Service.
- Click here to read a letter from 34 Members of the U.S. House of Representatives urging the House Labor-HHS Appropriations leadership to fully fund the President's FY10 budget request for the Corporation for National and Community Service.
There are many steps left in the appropriations process before final funding levels are enacted. The House will hold a second mark-up on Friday, July 17th, and the first Senate LHHS Subcommittee meeting is scheduled for July 28th. Voices for National Service will continue to monitor the appropriations process and keep the field updated as details emerge.
- Click here for information on how to contact your legislators to express your support for the President’s full budget request ($1.149 billion) for CNCS.
Legislative Update, June 10, 2009
On June 10, 2009, the House of Representatives agreed to H. Res. 453, a resolution “recognizing the significant accomplishments of the AmeriCorps” by a bipartisan vote of 359-60. Sponsored by Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA), the resolution acknowledges the work by AmeriCorps volunteers and encourages all Americans to consider joining AmeriCorps or any national and community service program.
- Click here to read the text of H. Res. 453 as agreed to in the House.
- Click here to see how representatives voted on H. Res. 453.
Rep. Matsui introduced the resolution on May 18, 2009, on the heels of AmeriCorps Week 2009, a week that aims to highlight the work and achievements by AmeriCorps members and programs. “This year, we celebrated National AmeriCorps Week with a renewed sense of purpose after the passage of the Senator Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act,” Rep. Matsui said on the floor of the House. “I urge my colleagues to continue to support AmeriCorps volunteers and take this opportunity to thank them for their dedication to our country and to their communities.”
- Click here to read a press release on H. Res. 453 from Rep. Matsui’s office.
Legislative Update, May 7, 2009
On May 7, 2009, President Obama sent to Congress his Fiscal Year 2010 budget request for the Corporation for National and Community Service and its programs. The President is requesting $1.149 billion, $259 million (29% increase) over the FY09 enacted level. The budget proposes funding levels for many existing and new initiatives authorized by the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act and lays the foundation for others.
- Click here for information on the President's FY10 budget request from the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Highlights of the President's budget include the following:
- AmeriCorps: Creates 10,000 new AmeriCorps positions, the first step towards the Serve America Act's goal of 250,000 annual members by the year 2017.
$372.5 million for AmeriCorps State/National grants to support 74,861 members, $101 million or 37% increase over the FY09 enacted level.
$97.9 million to support 5,980 full time AmeriCorps VISTA members and 1,690 Summer Associates, a $1.8 million increase over the FY09 enacted level.
$26.3 million to support 1,030 full-time NCCC members (and 90 Summer of Service members) on five campuses.
- National Service Trust: $195.6 million for the Trust, including the first increase in the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award since the program's inception in 1993.
- Senior Corps: $220.9 million to support nearly 500,000 Senior Corps volunteers, a 3.3% increase over the FY09 enacted level.
- Learn and Serve America: $39.5 million to support 1.3 million Learn and Serve participants, $2 million or 5% increase over FY09.
- Social Innovation Fund: $50 million to take successful projects and programs to scale and leverage additional capital from the private sector.
- Volunteer Generation Fund: $10 million to support grants to states and nonprofits to recruit, manage and support volunteers and strengthen the nation’s volunteer infrastructure.
- State Commission Administrative Grants: $16 million to help support the commission's increased workload.
- Corporation for National Community Service: Includes needed resources to strengthen the capacity of CNCS as their mission and services expand. Provides funds for a national Call to Service campaign and a new National Day of Service and Remembrance on September 11.
Legislative Update, April 21, 2009
On April 21, 2009, President Obama signed into law the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, which the House approved on March 31 by a bipartisan vote of 275-149. The bill had passed the Senate 79-19, followed by a unanimous approval to rename the legislation after the bill's sponsor. While the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act authorizes a massive expansion of national service programs for Americans of all ages, implementation is tied to the availability of funds. The President is expected to release a detailed budget for Fiscal Year 2010 in May, and Congress will consider the President's request as they make discretionary spending decisions and consider the twelve annual appropriations bills.
Legislative Update, March 31, 2009
On Tuesday, March 31, 2009, the House approved the Senate amendments to H.R. 1388, the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, by a bipartisan vote of 275-149. The bill was previously passed in the House as the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act. The bill, renamed in honor of Massachusetts Senator Edward Kennedy, authorizes a massive expansion of the volunteer national service programs for Americans of all ages. The bill passed the Senate on March 26 by an overwhelmingly bipartisan margin, 79-19.
- Click here to see how representatives voted on the Senate's amendments to H.R. 1388.
- Click here to see how senators voted on March 26 on the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act.
- Click here to read the text of H.R. 1388 as agreed to by the Senate and the House.
Both chambers of Congress accelerated their coordinated work on this legislation after President Obama called for its passage in his first address to a joint session of Congress on February 24, 2009. Maintaining a spirit of bipartisanship, the legislation was shepherded through the legislative process by Senators Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), and Mike Enzi (R-WY) and Representatives George Miller (D-CA), Howard “Buck” McKeon (R-CA), Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY), and Todd Platts (R-PA).
- Click here for a detailed summary of H.R. 1388 prepared by the Corporation for National and Community Service.
While speaking of the Serve America Act in Congress and in statements following its passage, leaders in the Senate HELP and House Education and Labor Committees said the following:
“[The] passage of the Serve America Act demonstrates welcome bipartisan agreement on the often neglected but indispensible value of citizen service in addressing some of the most urgent challenges facing America and the world. The bill is a major expansion of existing national and community programs. Its goal is to tap much more deeply into Americans’ enthusiasm to serve, and direct it to areas and issues where it can make the biggest difference.” – Senator Kennedy, Chairman, Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee
“Volunteer service is the lifeblood of our nation. It brings out the best in our people and strengthens our communities. That is why the Serve America Act is so important. This historic legislation will inspire civic-minded Americans across the nation to raise the bar of service and meet every challenge.” – Senator Hatch, Ranking Member, Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee
"The American spirit is one of giving back – to our neighbors, our communities, and our nation. All across this country, citizens are devoting their time, skills, and resources to make our country a better place. And through [this] Act, we can nurture that spirit of selflessness, leveraging both individuals and organizations to achieve national goals." – Representative McKeon, Ranking Member, House Education and Labor Committee
"The legislation makes good on President Obama’s call for Americans to do their part to help the nation’s economy recover by making a difference in their communities. When enacted, this will be the first major piece of the President’s agenda to receive overwhelming bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress." – Representative Miller, Chairman, House Education and Labor Committee
- Click here to read the press release from the House Committee on Education and Labor.
- Click here to read the press release issued by Senators Mikulski, Kennedy, Hatch, and Enzi following the bill’s passage in the Senate on March 26.
- Click here to read the press release from President Obama on March 31.
- Click here for a statement from Voices for National Service commending Congressional leaders for passing H.R. 1388.
The House vote was the last step in the legislative process. The landmark bill has been sent to President Obama to be signed into law.
Legislative Update, March 26, 2009
On Thursday, March 26, 2009, the Senate passed the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act by a roll call vote of 79 to 19. The bill will improve and strengthen the national service programs and increase levels of volunteerism, using service and social innovation to address our nation's most pressing challenges.
- Click here to read a press release issued by Senators Mikulski, Kennedy, Hatch, and Enzi following the bill’s passage.
- Click here to read the text of H.R. 1388 as agreed to by the Senate.
Statements from the bill's managers, Senators Mikulski and Hatch, underscore the broad bipartisan support that exists for the legislation that creates a new platform for service and social innovation in the country.
Sen. Mikulski: “I want to thank Senator Kennedy, Senator Hatch and Senator Enzi for their hard work crafting this legislation. Many of us present here today have participated in service in our lifetimes and, in giving back, we all got back more than we ever gave. This bill is not about programs, it’s about American values – the spirit of volunteerism and neighbor helping neighbor. By creating opportunities for Americans to participate in their society, this bill will make a major contribution to our country.”
Sen. Hatch: “Volunteer service is the lifeblood of our nation. It brings out the best in our people and strengthens our communities. That is why the Serve America Act is so important. This historic legislation will inspire civic-minded Americans across the nation to raise the bar of service and meet every challenge.”
The bill was amended on the Senate floor and the legislation was expanded to include the following:
- Baucus/Grassley Amendment to establish a Nonprofit Capacity Building Program. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Johanns Amendment to ensure that organizations promoting competitive and non-competitive sporting events involving individuals with disabilities may receive direct and indirect assistance to carry out national service programs. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Landrieu Amendment to add a foster care program to the national service corps programs. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Murkowski/Dorgan Amendment to modify certain provisions relating to Native Americans. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Shaheen/Gregg Amendment to ensure that the Education Corps may carry out activities that provide music and arts education and engagement. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Burr Amendment to provide for outreach to high schools with low graduation rates. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Burr Amendment to clarify references to high school graduation rates. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Baucus Amendment to express the Sense of the Senate that Congress should preserve the income tax deduction for charitable contributions and look for ways to continue to encourage charitable giving. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Burr Modified Amendment to improve the provisions relating to criminal history checks. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Warner Amendment to conduct a study regarding the establishment of a Volunteer Management Corps program. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Hatch Amendment to amend the title to The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act. Click here to read a summary from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
Legislative Update, March 18, 2009
Senate Committee Approves Serve America Act
On March 18, 2009, the Serve America Act (S.277) was unanimously approved by the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. Similar to the House’s GIVE Act (H.R. 1388), S. 277 seeks to expand national service and volunteer programs to tackle America’s most pressing challenges and create a new era of civic responsibility. President Obama specifically asked congressional leaders to pass the Serve America Act in his address to Congress last month.
- Click here for a copy of the joint Press Release issued by Senators Kennedy (D-MA), Enzi (R-WY), Hatch (R-UT) and Mikulski (D-MD).
- Click here for a copy of the amended Serve America Act approved by the Senate HELP Committee.
The Senate will vote on the Serve America Act during the week of March 23.
House Passes GIVE Act
On Wednesday, March 18, the House passed H.R. 1388, the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act by a roll call vote of 321-105. The bill will improve and strengthen the national service programs and increase levels of volunteerism, using service and social innovation to address our nation's most pressing challenges.
- Click here to read additional information on H.R. 1388 from the House Education and Labor Committee website.
The bill was amended on the House floor and the legislation was expanded to include the following:
- Amendment offered by Rep. Hill (D-IN) to make sending care packages to soldiers deployed in combat zones overseas an eligible service program. Click here to read a summary of the Hill Amendment from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Amendment offered by Rep. Hunter (R-CA) to remove veteran’s educational benefits from being taken into account when calculating the maximum award an individual could receive for participating in one of the national service programs. Click here to read a summary of the Hunter Amendment from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Amendment offered by Rep. Kilroy (D-OH) to make the supervision of in- and out-of- school physical education classes and nutrition education eligible service activities, in addition to providing elderly people with food delivery, legal and medical services and transportation assistance. Click here to read a summary of the Kilroy Amendment from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Amendment offered by Rep. Loebsack (D-IA) to authorize a new grant program, the Volunteer Generation Fund. Click here to read a summary of the Loebsack Amendment from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Amendment offered by Rep. Markey (D-CO) to increase the operational support provided to Education Award Only programs. Click here to read a summary of the Markey Amendment from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Amendment offered by Rep. Perriello (D-VA) and Rep. Titus (D-NV) to create a National Service Reserve Corps to engage national service alumni in national disaster and other emergency response. Click here to read a summary of the Amendment from Perriello and Titus from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Amendment offered by Rep. Pingree (D-ME) to expand the Clean Energy Corps to meet the needs of rural communities. Click here to read a summary of the Pingree Amendment from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Amendment offered by Rep. Roskam (R-IL) to authorize annual evaluation of the National Civilian and Community Corps. Click here to read a summary of the Roskam Amendment from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
- Amendment offered by Rep. Teague (D-NM) and Rep. Klein (D-FL) to expand service activities to include assistance to veterans in education or career services, medical claims, or transportation needs. Click here to read a summary of the Roskam Amendment from THOMAS and the text from the Congressional Record.
Rep. John Lewis Reintroduces Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act
On March 18, 2009, Representative John Lewis (D-GA) reintroduced the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act (H.R. 1596). The bill, which has 39 cosponsors, would make the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award tax-free by excluding it from consideration as gross income. Currently, some AmeriCorps members lose up to $1,000 of the award’s value after taxes. This legislation will ensure recipients can use the award’s full value to support their educational pursuits.
Since 1993, the AmeriCorps Education Award has been set at $4,725 for a year of full-time service. The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act of 2009 amends current law and ties the award’s value to the maximum Pell Grant, currently $5,350. The Act stipulates that AmeriCorps positions funded with fiscal year 2010 appropriations will be the first group to have the amount of their education awards increased.
H.R. 1596 has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee.
- Click here for a summary and the text of H.R. 1596 from THOMAS.
Legislative Update, March 11, 2009
House Committee Approves GIVE Act
On March 11, 2009, the House Education and Labor Committee approved H.R. 1388, The Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act by a vote of 34-3.
The national service programs have not been reauthorized in 16 years and the GIVE Act addresses this oversight. The bill strengthens and expands the federally supported service initiatives, stimulates community volunteerism, and increases accountability, improves efficiency and ensures results within the administration of the national service programs. The bill also authorizes some new approaches for expanding the capacity of the nonprofit sector to tap the ingenuity and innovation of citizens working together in local communities to address critical needs.
The GIVE Act has been crafted in an open, bipartisan manner and has broad support from the White House, community and faith-based partners, and the national service community.
The bill is expected to be sent to the full House for consideration during the week of March 16. Voices for National Service will continue to work with the House to make improvements to this legislation. An amendment will be offered next week to add the Volunteer Generation Fund to H.R. 1388, and our coalition unanimously supports this action.
Voices for National Service would like to thank Chairman George Miller, Ranking Member Buck McKeon, Representative Carolyn McCarthy and Representative Todd Platts for their leadership and swift action on this important bill.
- Click here for the House Education and Labor Committee web page with the text of the GIVE Act and amendments adopted yesterday.
- Click here for a Committee summary of the GIVE Act as introduced.
Legislative Update, March 10, 2009
Congress has also completed work on the Fiscal Year 2009 budget. Yesterday, President Obama signed the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act, which provides funding for programs across the government for the remainder of the fiscal year. As reported earlier, the bill provides $889.9 million for the Corporation for National and Community Service and its programs.
- Click here to view a more detailed budget overview for service programs prepared by CNCS.
- Click here for information on FY09 Appropriations efforts in the 110th Congress.
Legislative Update, March 10, 2009
On March 10, 2009, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee held a hearing to discuss the "Next Generation of Service". There was extensive discussion about the critical role service and volunteerism can play a critical role in getting our economy moving again, engaging Americans in productive work in difficult times and meeting the growing needs in communities. The Senate will hold an executive session on Wednesday, March 18th to mark up S. 277, the Serve America Act, introduced by Senator Edward Kennedy and Senator Orrin Hatch. The full Senate could take action on the bill before the end of the month.
- Click here to view witness testimony posted on the HELP Committee website.
Legislative Update, February 26, 2009
On February 26, 2009, President Obama published “ A New Era of Responsibility: Renewing America’s Promise,” providing a description of the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2010 budget expected to be released this spring. Supporting the call to service in his first address to Congress, the President recommends $1.13 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service and its three core programs - AmeriCorps, Senior Corps and Learn & Serve America. This request includes $240 million above the amount included in the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act passed by the House yesterday. The additional funding aims to give more Americans the opportunity to serve and to build the capacity of the nonprofit sector to find innovative solutions to social problems.
For FY10, the Administration proposes:
AmeriCorps: The Budget would set AmeriCorps on a path to expand from its current 75,000 funded slots to 250,000, and would ensure the availability of service opportunities to achieve demonstrable results. The Budget would also increase the amount of the Eli Segal Education Award, which has not been adjusted since the program’s inception in 1993.
Social Innovation Fund: The Budget would create a new social innovation fund, charged with testing promising new approaches to major challenges, leveraging private and foundation capital to meet these needs, and scaling up research proven programs.
Senior Corps: The President’s Budget would expand and improve Senior Corps programs, which connect individuals over the age of 55 to local volunteer opportunities, allowing more retirees to help meet the needs and challenges in their communities.
Learn and Serve America: The Budget includes additional resources for Learn and Serve America, which supports programs in schools, higher education institutions and community-based organizations that engage students, their teachers, and others in service-learning.
Corporation for National and Community Service: The Budget provides needed resources to strengthen the capacity of CNCS to manage its programs, measure performance, and conduct rigorous evaluations of the impact of CNCS programs.
- Click here to read the full statement on funding for the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Voices for National Service is hopeful that the strong support of the Administration will help to grow the federal investment in national service and provide opportunities for more Americans to tackle pressing community needs in education, public health, the environment, and more. The President’s budget submission is just the first step in a lengthy appropriations process. Voices for National Service will remain engaged, reaching out to the Administration and the Congress, urging them to sustain and grow their investment.
Legislative Update, February 24, 2009
On February 24, 2009, Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT), Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS) and Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) announced the introduction of their “Service for All Ages” initiative, a group of four bills that will expand and strengthen opportunities for Americans of all ages to serve their communities. The initiative includes the Semester of Service Act, the Summer of Service Act, the AmeriCorps: Together Improving Our Nation (ACTION) Act, and the Encore Service Act.
Click the legislation title below to read the full bill text and view the list of co-sponsors:
- Semester of Service Act (S.465)
The Semester of Service Act will give students in their junior or senior year of high school the opportunity to spend a semester participating in community service-learning for academic credit.
- Summer of Service Act (S.466)
The Summer of Service Act will create a competitive grant program that enables states and localities to offer students making the transition from middle to high school an opportunity to participate in a structured community service program over the summer months.
- Encore Service Act (S.467)
The Encore Service Act will take advantage of all older Americans have to offer communities by providing stipends and educational scholarships to citizens 55 years of age and older who volunteer their time and dedicate their knowledge to help communities in need.
Legislative Update, February 23, 2009
On February 23, 2009, the House Committee on Appropriations introduced the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act (H.R. 1105) to provide funding for federal departments and programs for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2009. Since September, Congress had been operating under a continuing resolution, a temporary measure to maintain government programs, including national service, at Fiscal Year 2008 levels.
The Omnibus bill provides $889.9 million total for the Corporation for National and Community Service and its programs for this current fiscal year. Programs are funded at the following levels:
- $271.2 million for AmeriCorps State and National
- $131.1 million for the National Service Trust
- $96.1 million for AmeriCorps VISTA
- $27.5 million for AmeriCorps NCCC
- $213.8 million for Senior Corps
- $37.5 million for Learn and Serve America
- $11.8 million for State Commission Administration
The House and Senate are expected to pass an Omnibus bill quickly because the continuing resolution is set to expire next week, March 6th. The next step is for the Senate to introduce its version of the bill. Once both chambers have passed legislation any differences will be negotiated in conference. The Appropriations Committees will then need to start work on fiscal year 2010 spending bills.
- Click here for information on FY09 Appropriations efforts in the 110th Congress.
- Click here for FY09 funding levels for the Corporation for National and Community Service as requested by Voices for National Service.
Legislative Update, February 20, 2009
On February 20, 2009 the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) held a series of calls with grantees and the public to discuss implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. CNCS created a webpage where individuals can hear recordings of these calls and access other information about the stimulus funding that will engage citizens through service to address unmet needs and strengthen communities.
- Click here to visit the new webpage hosted by the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Legislative Update, February 17, 2009
Over President’s Day weekend, both the House and Senate approved the conference report of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which includes $201 million for the Corporation for National and Community Service and its programs. President Obama is scheduled to sign the economic stimulus bill into law today, February 17, 2009.
The final bill contains language on the proposed use of funds and divides the majority of the spending as follows:
- $89 million for AmeriCorps State and National to make additional awards to existing grantees. Up to 20% of the available funds may be used for national direct grants.
- $65 million for AmeriCorps VISTA
- $40 million for the National Service Trust
- $6 million for information technology upgrades
- $1 million for the Inspector General
- Click here to access the bill language and learn more about how the Corporation for National and Community Service plans to develop an operating plan for the stimulus funds.
Legislative Update, January 28, 2009
On January 28, 2009 the U.S. House of Representatives passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (HR. 1), commonly known as the economic stimulus plan, by a vote of 244-188. The legislation includes $200 million for the Corporation for National and Community Service. According to the House Committee Report, $160 million is provided to supplement or expand “existing AmeriCorps grants” and $40 million is for the National Service Trust. The committee report cites the challenges facing the nonprofit sector and notes that “nonprofit organizations are also experiencing an increased number of applications for service opportunities and increased demand for services for vulnerable populations to meet critical needs” and suggests the funding would engage an estimated 16,000 more AmeriCorps members.
- Click here to access the bill language and committee report on Thomas.gov.
The full Senate Appropriations Committee approved its version of the economic stimulus plan (S. 336) on January 27. A vote by the full Senate is expected next week. The Senate bill also contains $200 million for the Corporation for National and Community Service and its programs. Specifically it provides:
- Click here to access the bill language and committee report on the Senate Appropriations Committee website.
Following Senate passage, the House and Senate must meet in a conference to work out differences between the two bills.
Legislative Update, January 16, 2009
On January 16, Senators Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and Orrin Hatch (R-UT), along with a bipartisan group of more than 20 Senators introduced The Serve America Act (S.277). The legislation seeks to encourage 175,000 additional Americans of all ages to give a year of service to address specific national challenges in education, healthcare, housing, energy, and the environment. Additionally, the Serve America Act supports innovation and entrepreneurship in the nonprofit sector and short-term international service opportunities.
Current sponsors of The Serve America Act (S.277)
Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA) |
Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) |
Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) |
Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) |
Sen. Evan Bayh (D-IN) |
Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) |
Sen. Benjamin Cardin (D-MD) |
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) |
Sen. Thad Cochran (R-MS) |
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) |
Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-CT) |
Sen. John Rockefeller (D-WV) |
Sen. Richard Durbin (D-IL) |
Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) |
Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH) |
Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-ME) |
Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) |
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) |
Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-LA) |
Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) |
Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) |
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Voices for National Service is excited to work with Congress, the incoming Obama Administration, and the national service field to pass this historic bill as part of our reauthorization efforts to expand and strengthen national and community service programs.
Legislative Update, January 15, 2009
On January 15, 2009, the House Committee on Appropriations released a new statement on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Bill of 2009, stimulus legislation that aims to create and save 3 to 4 million jobs, to jumpstart the economy, and to provide needed services to Americans. Identified as a priority investment in the bill, AmeriCorps programs are slated to receive $200 million to put approximately 16,000 additional AmeriCorps members to work doing national service, meeting needs of vulnerable populations and communities during the recession.
The House package directs the AmeriCorps funding be made available to supplement or expand existing grants to programs already operating in the field. The Corporation for National and Community Service will have authority to use the money in either fiscal year 2009 or 2010.
- Click here to read the full statement summarizing the American Recovery and Reinvestment Bill of 2009.
Congress hopes to complete a stimulus package by mid-February, and President-elect Obama has identified the legislation as one of his top priorities.
Legislative Update, January 12, 2009
On January 12, 2009, Congress passed without opposition, H.Res 43, a bipartisan resolution recognizing the efforts of those who serve their communities on Martin Luther King Day and promoting the holiday as a day of national service. The resolution was offered by Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA), Todd Platts (R-PA) and David Price (D-NC), the current Co-Chairs of the National Service Congressional Caucus.
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