Omaha City Wire

Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), and Jack Bergman (R-MI) have put forward the Unity Through Service Act once more. This bipartisan and bicameral initiative is also supported in the Senate by Jack Reed (D-RI) and Todd Young (R-IN). The timing of reintroduction aligns with the fifth anniversary of the final report from the National Commission on Military, National, and Public Service.

The act aims to establish the Interagency Council on Service. Its purpose is to evaluate existing programs and develop new recruitment strategies. It also plans to create a joint recruitment and advertising program involving the Department of Defense, the Corporation on National and Community Service, and the Peace Corps. Additionally, the legislation seeks to provide support for transitioning service members in finding further service opportunities and calls for Congress to receive a quadrennial report on public service initiatives.

Don Bacon stated, "I know first-hand the importance and value of service to your country as a retired Air Force General... We need to be able to attract qualified individuals with critical skills necessary to serve."

Chrissy Houlahan shared, "Having served in the Air Force and as a Teach for America educator, I know the profound impact national service can have... Through service, I know we can reforge the bonds of unity that tie us all together."

Jimmy Panetta commented on the decline in volunteering since the pandemic, saying, "I’m proud to work alongside Rep. Houlahan on the Unity Through Service Act... In service to others, we perpetuate our democratic values."

Jack Bergman added, "The Unity Through Service Act will be a bridge between service entities, providing education, support, and coordination... I’m proud to help lead this bill to continue advancing our military capabilities."

The legislation has received endorsements from numerous public service organizations. Rye Barcott, CEO of With Honor Action, praised the act, asserting it "strengthens civic engagement and promotes service opportunities for all Americans."

Kaira Esgate, CEO of America’s Service Commissions, also expressed support, stating, "National service enables Americans to address critical issues in our communities and instills a sense of mission and purpose..."

AnnMaura Connolly, President of Voices for National Service, added, "By elevating service and fostering greater collaboration across agencies, this bill will help strengthen national service programs..."

The legislation's complete text is available for public viewing.