WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers has reintroduced the Unity Through Service Act, aimed at enhancing national and public service opportunities in the United States. Spearheaded by Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Jack Bergman (R-MI), and Don Bacon (R-NE), alongside Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Todd Young (R-IN), this legislation seeks to strengthen collaboration between service organizations and create new pathways for Americans to serve their communities and country.
The reintroduction coincides with the fifth anniversary of the National Commission on Military, National, and Public Service’s Inspired to Serve report, which first recommended the bill. The proposed legislation would establish the Interagency Council on Service to oversee service programs, develop strategies for recruitment, and issue regular recommendations to Congress. It also authorizes joint advertising efforts by the Department of Defense, the Corporation for National and Community Service, and the Peace Corps.
“Having served in the Air Force and as a Teach for America educator, I know the profound impact national service can have to improve someone’s life and community,” said Representative Houlahan. ”This bipartisan legislation is an important step that will revitalize national service in this country. The bill will boost the ongoing collaboration between America’s military, public, and national service organizations to create new opportunities for our citizens to serve. Through service, I know we can reforge the bonds of unity that tie us all together.”
Representative Panetta underscored the urgency given declining volunteer numbers. “Ever since the pandemic, the number of Americans participating in volunteer work has been on the decline,” he noted. “I’m proud to work alongside Rep. Houlahan on the Unity Through Service Act which would implement elements of our larger Inspire to Serve Act to establish an Interagency Council on Service to promote opportunities for military service, national service, and public service. In service to others, we perpetuate our democratic values and I look forward to continuing to fight for impactful legislation to better mobilize Americans volunteering for the betterment of their community and country.”
Representative Bergman reflected on the act’s potential to inspire the next generation. “The Unity Through Service Act will be a bridge between service entities, providing education, support, and coordination between our military and civil service,” he said. “This legislation will drive enthusiasm to serve our Nation among young people. I’m proud to help lead this bill to will continue advancing our military capabilities.”
Representative Bacon cited his military service as motivation for pushing the initiative. “I know first-hand the importance and value of service to your country as a retired Air Force General. We have seen a decline in the number of young Americans signing up to serve in our nation’s armed forces and public service, and this commission will help to answer the question of ‘why?’ We need to be able to attract qualified individuals with critical skills necessary to serve,” he said.
The bill has earned endorsements from leading public service organizations, including With Honor Action, America’s Service Commissions, and Voices for National Service, all of which highlighted its potential to expand service opportunities and foster civic engagement.
If passed, the Unity Through Service Act promises to invigorate national service by coordinating federal programs, increasing outreach efforts, and creating a sustainable framework for future generations to serve and strengthen the nation.
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