[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 38 (Thursday, March 6, 2008)]
[House]
[Pages H1349-H1393]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
GENERATIONS INVIGORATING VOLUNTEERISM AND EDUCATION ACT
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015 and rule
XVIII, the Chair declares the House in the Committee of the Whole House
on the state of the Union for the consideration of the bill, H.R. 2857.
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In the Committee of the Whole
Accordingly, the House resolved itself into the Committee of the
Whole House on the state of the Union for the consideration of the bill
(H.R. 2857) to reauthorize and reform the national service laws, with
Mrs. Tauscher in the chair.
The Clerk read the title of the bill.
The CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to the rule, the bill is considered read the
first time.
The gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller) and the gentleman
from California (Mr. McKeon) each will control 30 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from California (Mr. George
Miller).
Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. Madam Chairman, I rise in strong
support of H.R. 2857, the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and
Education Act, the first reauthorization of national and community
service laws and programs since 1993. I am pleased that today this
House is taking up this important measure that will take volunteerism
and service into the 21st century.
It was in March of 1961 that President John F. Kennedy first
challenged a generations of Americans to ask ``not what your country
can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.'' By establishing
the Peace Corps and the Volunteers in Service to America programs, he
inspired millions of Americans to make a difference here at home and
around the globe. He created a powerful legacy of hope and service that
connects us as Americans.
Almost 50 years later, we should be very proud that volunteering in
America is at a 30-year high. Through AmeriCorps and other service
programs, new generations of Americans have become inspired to build
stronger, more vibrant communities, help children succeed in schools,
and rebuild cities in times of disaster.
In fact, in 2006, more than 61 million Americans gave back to their
communities through service. That same year, volunteers in my home
State of California contributed more than 858 million hours of service
to our State economy, a value of more than $17 billion. In the 15 years
since AmeriCorps was enacted into law, more than 500,000 Americans of
all ages and backgrounds have participated in this program.
Our current and future generations of volunteers deserve our renewed
support for their programs, just as President Kennedy first provided
decades ago. The GIVE Act, this legislation, recognizes this growing
service movement that is taking place across the Nation. It builds upon
the successful work being done in communities across by members of
AmeriCorps, VISTA, Senior Corps and Learn and Serve America.
AmeriCorps has become a successful model for public-private
partnerships. Last year, the AmeriCorps program leveraged more than
$200 million in matching funds, mobilized more than 1.4 million
volunteers, and worked with 2,000 small and large faith-based and
community-based organizations across the country.
The GIVE Act would strengthen the AmeriCorps service model by putting
us on the path to increasing the number of AmeriCorps members from
75,000 to 100,000 by 2012 with a focus of engaging low-income,
disadvantaged, and at-risk youth.
With soaring tuition prices making it more difficult for many
students to get a college degree, the GIVE Act would help AmeriCorps
members pay for college by increasing the scholarship that they earn in
exchange for their service from $4,725 to $5,255 by 2012.
This bill would also introduce young people to community service by
creating a new Summer of Service initiative that will offer middle
school and high school students the opportunity to spend the summer
working to improve their communities while earning a $500 education
award that can be used for college or for college preparation.
Alumni of these programs remain valuable resources to our
communities. More than 72 percent of AmeriCorps members continue to
volunteer in their communities after their term of service ends. After
Hurricane Katrina devastated gulf coast communities, AmeriCorps alumni
played a key role in relief, recovery, and rebuilding efforts.
To help tap into these resources in times of emergency, this bill
would expand the number of volunteers ready to respond by creating an
Alumni Reserve Corps of service alumni with previous experience serving
during disasters.
Volunteering also provides critical opportunities for older Americans
to make a difference in their communities. Each year, nearly half a
million older Americans participate in the Senior Corps programs,
mentoring children of prisoners, providing independent living services
to seniors, assisting victims of natural disasters, and mobilizing
other volunteers.
The GIVE Act would expand the purpose of Senior Corps programs by
adding an emphasis on recruiting retired STEM, health care, law
enforcement and military professionals to help with education, after-
school, public safety and technology needs.
In addition, it would phase in the competition for the Retired and
Senior Volunteer Programs, an important part of the Senior Corps by
2013, allowing new grantees and volunteers to join the service movement
and encouraging innovation and evolution among high-performing
programs. I also want to thank the RSVP program for working with us to
ensure a responsible transition.
I want to thank Members on both sides of the aisle, in particular
Representatives McCarthy, McKeon and Platts, for their leadership, as
well as the Service Caucus for their support.
I also want to thank our committee staff for their hard work on this
bill, including Alex Ceja, Denise Forte, Stephanie Moore, Deborah
Koolbeck with Mrs. McCarthy, Brad Thomas with Mr. McKeon, and Becky
Wolfkiel with Mr. Platts.
Let me also thank Voices of Services and its member organizations,
who were invaluable in helping us develop this legislation.
It is clear that service has played an important role in this
country's history and will continue to help us meet the challenges and
needs of our communities. It is clear that the interest in volunteering
reaches across all generations: our young people, retiring baby
boomers, and older Americans. The GIVE Act reflects their commitment,
and our commitment, to building a stronger country through service. I
urge my colleagues to join us in this effort by supporting this
legislation.
Madam Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. McKEON. Madam Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may
consume, and I rise in support of the GIVE Act.
I would like to begin by thanking Chairman Miller, as well as the
Chair and the ranking member of the subcommittee, Mrs. McCarthy of New
York and Mr. Platts from Pennsylvania, for their efforts to develop a
solid, bipartisan bill that will strengthen our national service
programs. I would also like to recognize Brad Thomas from my staff for
his hard work on this bill.
Like many of my colleagues, particularly on this side of the aisle, I
historically have had concerns about AmeriCorps and the other programs
within the Corporation for National and Community Service. Particularly
during the 1990s, Federal management of these programs was at best
dismal.
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For years, I joined many of my colleagues, led by Mr. Hoekstra, in
seeking to establish performance measures to ensure that these national
service programs are in fact meeting their goals.
Under the Bush administration, it has become clear that these
programs are being held more accountable and they have become more
efficient as a result. For example, the corporation received its
seventh consecutive clean audit during the fiscal year 2006. Likewise,
the corporation's leadership has instituted significant improvements in
efficiency and quality, including streamlining the grants and
application reporting processes, consolidating five field service
centers into one, and automating education award payments, time and
attendance, and travel.
In short, the recent management of this program has far surpassed its
record of low accountability under the previous administration; and for
that reason in particular, it deserves our continued support.
Moreover, this program brings together our neighbors to serve one
another and thus benefit our Nation. Although there are clear
opportunities to strengthen and improve these programs, the simple fact
is that the corporation plays a key and increasingly effective role in,
as President Bush would say, ``rallying the armies of compassion.''
Later today I plan to offer an amendment that will strengthen this
already good bill. The purpose of my amendment is to acknowledge the
patriotism, commitment, and sacrifice made by members of the military
and their families. In return for their service to our Nation, I
believe the least we can do is ensure our national service programs are
able to benefit veterans and military families.
Madam Chairman, this bill is based on sound principles for reform
outlined by the administration and developed in conjunction with the
corporation. It includes a long overdue emphasis on accountability with
its inclusion of performance measures and increased competition. And on
the whole, I find the bill to be a balanced one that is worthy of our
support.
Madam Chairman, this bill represents a bipartisan effort to come
together on a program that is good for the citizens of this Nation.
Unfortunately, our Democrat colleagues have been unwilling to work in
the same bipartisan fashion on our Nation's security interests. It has
been 18 days since the Protect America Act expired, nearly 3 weeks that
the majority has conspicuously refused to bring the bipartisan Senate
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act modernization bill to a vote. And
yesterday we got a glimpse of the reason why. An anonymous Member
argued that delaying action on this critical security measure made for
good politics. Madam Chairman, it is unfathomable that our Nation's
security may be put at risk in the name of political gamesmanship. I
strongly urge the majority to bring FISA modernization for a vote.
Madam Chairman, I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from
Pennsylvania (Mr. Platts), and I ask unanimous consent that he be
allowed to control that time.
The CHAIRMAN. The gentleman from Pennsylvania will control the time.
Mr. PLATTS. I reserve my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Chairman, I yield myself such time
as I may consume.
This is a great day for national service. It has been 15 years since
we reauthorized our national service laws. As chairwoman of the Healthy
Families and Communities Subcommittee, I am pleased to speak in support
of H.R. 2857, the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education
Act, the GIVE Act.
I am also pleased to say that the administration and the service
community support the GIVE Act. I would like to thank Chairman Miller
for his continued strong support and work on this reauthorization. I
would also like to extend my thanks to the ranking member of our
committee, Mr. McKeon, for his hard work.
Finally, I would like to thank my good friend and ranking member of
the subcommittee, Mr. Platts, for his work on this reauthorization.
Later I will speak on my manager's amendment, which is also a
bipartisan effort. National service has a distinguished and strong
history in our Nation. The benefits of service cannot be disputed.
Evidence shows that service and volunteering lowers school dropout and
crime rates, lowers costs associated with the aging population, and
improves health among the elderly.
Volunteering is a cost-effective way of working to solve the
challenges facing our Nation today. That is why the passage of the GIVE
Act is necessary. One of the most effective volunteer organizations in
this Nation is AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps volunteers offer a range of
services focused on low-income and disadvantaged communities. Our
legislation recognizes their invaluable work and increases the number
of participants to 100,000.
The GIVE Act also encourages programs to recruit underrepresented
populations to serve, including scientists and engineers, young people
in our aging-out foster care, children at risk of delinquency, and
other disadvantaged young people.
I truly believe that expanding national service, particularly to
disadvantaged youth, is an effective way to combat things like youth
gangs and violence, and the evidence bears it out.
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If we are serious about reducing gang violence, we must take the
first step and offer children an alternative.
This legislation creates a Summer of Service program which gives
middle school and high school students an opportunity to become engaged
in a positive way within their community. Through the Summer of Service
program, our Nation's young people will have a chance to serve with
others their own age while improving their community.
Research shows that if students are engaged in service at an early
age, they continue to serve throughout their life.
We are strengthening the mission of the first responder volunteer
program, the National Civil Community Corps by requiring more intense
disaster and emergency relief training during down periods in order to
be better prepared in a time of crisis.
We are all aware of what our Nation faced in the wake of Hurricane
Katrina, and the NCCC was there to respond, and continues to recover
today.
The GIVE Act will help our Nation become better prepared for future
disasters by training and preparing more emergency volunteers. The GIVE
Act creates in the corporation an office of outreach and recruitment.
The new office will establish a reserve corps made up of those who have
gone through the program and are alumni. The reserve corps alumni will
be called on during emergencies, disasters, or other times of national
need.
We've heard people asking over and over again during our hearings,
why aren't we using former volunteers? The new outreach office will
work to connect over 500,000 former volunteers who can be resources for
recruitment.
The GIVE Act lowers the age of participation in the National Senior
Service to 55 years old. By lowering the age, we are encouraging
retiring Americans to participate in national service and giving older
Americans the opportunity to lead us into the future. Our Nation's
retiring and retired adults are a rich resource that cannot be
overlooked.
Every American, old and young, has skills that improve the day-to-day
functions of our society. The GIVE Act encourages individuals to get
involved, creates a deeper commitment to service, and makes our Nation
more like what it should be.
I want to again thank Chairman Miller for his deep commitment to
national service, Ranking Member McKeon and Congressman Platts for
their work with us on this bipartisan activity. And I urge my
colleagues to support this much needed legislation.
Madam Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Madam Chairman, I appreciate the opportunity to speak
today, and I certainly rise also in support of H.R. 2857, the
Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act. This program
will certainly strengthen and finally reauthorize the Nation's national
and community service programs. And after 15 years, this
reauthorization is certainly long overdue.
I want to add my words of praise and thanks to my Chair, Chairwoman
[[Page H1351]]
McCarthy, as well as to the full committee Chair, Chairman Miller, and
the ranking member, Buck McKeon, for their important leadership in
moving this reauthorization forward of this very important program that
promotes active involvement of citizens of all ages.
In 1973, Congress passed the Domestic Volunteer Service Act, DVSA, to
foster and expand volunteer service in communities while helping
vulnerable and disadvantaged populations such as the elderly and the
poor. DVSA authorized the National Senior Volunteer Corps, made up of
the Foster Grandparents Program, the Senior Companion Program, and the
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program.
Seventeen years later, Congress passed the National and Community
Service Act, NCSA, of 1990. NCSA aims to address unmet human,
educational, environmental, and public safety needs, as well as to
renew a sense of civic responsibility by encouraging citizens to
participate in national service programs. Authorized under NCSA are
Learn and Serve America, AmeriCorps State and national grants, and the
National Civilian Community Corps.
Both DVSA and NCSA are administered by the Corporation for National
Community Service, and both laws were most recently amended in 1993 by
the National and Community Service Act. While authorization of
appropriations for both laws expired at the end of fiscal year 2006,
these programs have remained funded through annual appropriations
measures.
I'm pleased to be a cosponsor of H.R. 2857, the GIVE Act, and believe
that this bill makes commonsense improvements to our Nation's national
service programs. Not only does it provide increased flexibility for
States, but importantly, and as referenced by Ranking Member McKeon, it
also increases accountability and efficiency within the administration
of these programs.
H.R. 2857 strengthens existing community and national service
programs by providing year-round service opportunities for students and
elderly alike, and further encourages involvement of disadvantaged
youth. This legislation also expands eligibility requirements for
senior serving programs like Foster Grandparents and the Senior
Companion Program, ensuring that individuals with an interest in
serving have options available to them. Finally, the GIVE Act
reauthorizes DVSA and NCSA through fiscal year 2013.
Recent natural disasters such as Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, as well
as the wild fires in California, have showcased the important efforts
of AmeriCorps and NCCC volunteers. I am proud to be part of this effort
to strengthen national service programs and ensure that participants
can continue to aid disadvantaged and needy populations. And I have
seen firsthand in my district the great work of senior citizens in the
Senior Companion Program and young citizens in AmeriCorps partnering
with Habitat for Humanity to truly make a difference in Central
Pennsylvania. And we know that these efforts are being replicated
across the country.
So, Madam Chairman, I hope that all will join in supporting the GIVE
Act and vote in favor of this legislation.
I reserve the balance of my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Chairman, may I inquire how much
time we have on both sides.
The CHAIRMAN. The gentlewoman from New York has 19\1/2\ minutes
remaining. The gentleman from Pennsylvania has 22\1/2\ minutes
remaining.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Chairman, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to
the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hare), a member of the Education and
Labor Committee.
Mr. HARE. Madam Chairman, H.R. 2857, the GIVE Act, reauthorizes our
national service programs for the first time in 15 years. This
legislation strengthens programs like AmeriCorps, Vista, Senior Corps
and Learn and Serve America so they can continue their invaluable
services and expand into underserved communities.
The people of my congressional district are no strangers to community
service. We have four effective Retired Senior Volunteer Programs,
known as RSVPs, located in my district: West Central Illinois RSVP,
Adams County RSVP, RSVP of the Quad Cities, and RSVP of Springfield,
Illinois. Together, these programs engage 3,464 volunteers in 577,226
hours of services in 13 counties. I had the opportunity to visit
several of these last October and was impressed by their organization,
their large number of volunteers, and the variety of services that they
offer.
Illinois RSVP volunteers serve the young and old, the healthy and the
infirm. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, with the Red
Cross, police department, and assist with home delivery meal programs.
These dedicated volunteers touch the lives of hundreds of people and
have a profound impact on the communities in which they serve.
I want to thank Chairman Miller, Ranking Member McKeon, and their
staffs for their work on this legislation and their efforts to address
these concerns.
Mr. PLATTS. Madam Chairman, I yield as much time as he consumes to
the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Hoekstra).
Mr. HOEKSTRA. Madam Chairman, you know it's a good day today where we
have the opportunity to go back and reauthorize the Corporation for
National and Community Service. This is a program that 15 years ago is
a program that I supported, and I'm glad that this Congress is going to
take the steps to move this program forward and continue the efforts in
this area.
However, if we're really going to protect the Corporation for
National and Community Service, if we are really going to protect the
individuals that are working in these types of programs, what we should
have been doing today and what we should do is we should extend the
terrorist surveillance program. We should pass FISA modernization.
You know, 3 weeks ago the majority said that this bill would come to
the floor. They needed a 3-week extension to get the bill done. That
expires this week.
We're going to have a long day today. We'll be here till 2 or 3
o'clock, which I think will be the third week in a row where we will go
home early and we will not take care of this vital national security
issue.
We've had a 6-month extension, we had a 2-week extension. The program
now has lapsed for 3 weeks. Each and every day our capabilities erode
just a little bit more. And each and every day we remove these
capabilities to track foreign terrorists by our Intelligence Community,
each and every day America becomes a little bit more vulnerable.
Americans living at home, people in this program, our men and women in
uniform in Afghanistan and in Iraq, they're a little bit more
vulnerable. Our embassy personnel around the world are a little bit
more vulnerable.
Earlier this week the statement was made, well, you know, we'd maybe
like to do FISA this week but the schedule is just too full. We're not
going to have the opportunity to get to it. We're not going to have the
opportunity to get to it. We're going to be done working some time in
the middle of the afternoon and we're going to leave a national
security issue laying on the table for the third week in a row?
Will the majority deal with this issue next week? Will they deal with
it before we go on recess? Or will they allow it to lapse for 6 weeks?
How vulnerable does America need to become before the majority decides
to act on FISA?
I just wonder if the majority's even looking at what's going on
around the world, taking a look at the attacks that are taking place in
Pakistan, taking a look at the attacks that are happening in
Afghanistan, listening to the rhetoric that's coming out of Iran,
listening to the rhetoric that's coming out from al Qaeda in Iraq,
listening to the rhetoric that's coming out of Hezbollah in Syria and
in Lebanon. There are threats against our allies. There are threats
against Western Europe. There are threats against our friends in
Northern Africa. There are threats against Western Europe, and yes,
there are threats against the United States of America.
They're not listening to what al Qaeda and radical jihadists and
other terrorists are saying. They're not reading what these individuals
are saying, because if you were listening to what they were saying, if
you were reading what they were writing, and if you were watching what
they were doing, you would understand that the threat is real and that
it is a grave mistake to
[[Page H1352]]
allow this intelligence tool and to allow other intelligence tools to
erode continually.
Yes, America's more vulnerable today than it was 3 weeks ago. America
is more vulnerable today than it was 14 months ago because, on national
security issue after national security issue, the other side refuses to
give our intelligence community the tools that they need to keep
America safe. These tools have developed. They've evolved. They've been
working very, very well in protecting America. But for the last 14
months, the majority has not only let these tools evolve and
deteriorate, in many cases they've been under direct attack from the
majority. Today our intelligence community is paying a price because
they do not have the tools necessary to keep America safe. Hopefully,
America will not pay a price because the intelligence community hasn't
been given the tools by the majority to keep America safe.
It's time to bring the Senate bill to the floor. This is a bill that
has widespread support, passed by 68 votes in the Senate, supported by
a majority of the Republicans and the Democrats in the Senate.
Bring that bill to the House. Bring it up right after the GIVE Act.
Make sure that we've got the tools in place to keep America safe and to
keep the people working in this program and other programs safe.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to my
colleague on the Healthy Families and Communities Subcommittee, the
gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Sarbanes).
Mr. SARBANES. Madam Chairman, I rise today to commend Chairman
Miller, Chairwoman McCarthy, Ranking Member McKeon, and others for
putting together a very strong reauthorization of the National and
Community Service Act of 1990 and the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of
1973.
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It supports the Nation's priorities in a number of important areas.
In particular, I'd like to thank the committee's leadership for
recognizing the critical role that veterans and older Americans can
play in solving problems and strengthening communities, by recommending
several new provisions.
Our veterans are simply the best of what this country has to offer,
both with respect to their exemplary character and the technical,
professional, and administrative expertise which they acquire during
their years of service. They are an invaluable and untapped resource to
underserved communities. America should embrace the opportunity to
establish a well-defined veterans-centered and -integrated community
support system based on national and community service. The GIVE Act
begins a national conversation on how to make this happen.
Every day nearly 8,000 of the Nation's 78 million baby boomers turn
60. We know from research that the vast majority plan to work or stay
engaged in their community well past traditional retirement age. This
is a wonderful opportunity, given their stated interest in helping
others and the ever-worsening labor shortage in education, health care,
government, and nonprofit work.
I'm a strong supporter of the idea that those who have finished their
mid-life careers can be a force for social good in the 21st century. By
turning the aging of America into a positive story, we can tap into
this energy. It is going to take creativity, experimentation, bold
action, and looking to the future more than the past. Congress has a
critical responsibility, along with the States and the private sector,
to ensure baby boomers will have the opportunity to serve.
We talk about this wave of returning veterans, and we talk about the
demographic wave of aging Americans. How you respond to a wave depends
on how you position yourself. That wave can either come crashing down
on us, or it can be a wave that lifts us up and moves us forward.
I look forward to continuing to work with the committee and this
Congress to explore additional proposals to capture the energy,
idealism, and talent of our veterans and millions of older Americans
who want to make a major contribution to the public good.
Mr. PLATTS. Madam Chairman, I certainly am pleased to be part of
moving this legislation, the GIVE Act; but I do want to associate
myself with the gentleman from Michigan, the ranking member of the
House Select Committee on Intelligence, on the importance of us moving
the reauthorization of FISA; and, hopefully, we will get to that as
quickly as possible and restore the tools to our intelligence community
they need to protect our Nation and our citizens.
With that, I'd like to yield as much time as he may consume to the
distinguished gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Shays).
Mr. SHAYS. Madam Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding to me.
Frankly, I don't think there is a more important bill than this; and
yet to hear some of the critics, it's like we're just paying people to
be volunteers.
The thing I love about Ronald Reagan was Ronald Reagan believed in
the future of America, the youth of America, and that the best was yet
to come. And he gave us a sense of hope, as did President Kennedy.
When President Kennedy talked about the Peace Corps, I was in eighth
grade. My parents bought a TV set to listen to the debate between Nixon
and President Kennedy, and I was just enthralled by a President who
asked me, a young person, to do something for the world, and that was
to become a Peace Corps volunteer.
And from that point on, that was one of my dreams. It was something I
wanted to do . . . become a Peace Corps Volunteer.
Guess what? Peace Corps volunteers are paid. We earn a salary and are
given a stipend because we have to eat. We are given a certain sum of
money at the end, not for education, but to frankly be able to come
back and just buy some clothes. When you clean your underwear on rocks
for 2 years, you don't want to continue to wear them when you get home.
So what did President Clinton want to do? He said we have the Peace
Corps for those who volunteer overseas. And we have Vista for those who
want to be of service in these United States. But we can make Vista
better. We're going to have expanded national service here at home, and
by the way, while this was happening we in Congress were getting rid of
summer jobs for kids.
The President said and I want this expanded national service program
to be a bipartisan proposal. I want to work with Republicans. Let's
make this something all of us can get behind.
I got excited with his call to us. Let's work together, and we did.
Because instead of a national program where one-size-fits-all, he said
it's going to be a competitive process, something Republican should
like.
And by the way, I'll just say parenthetically, Ms. Matsui has an
amendment that I am a chief cosponsor of that says let's have more of
the dollars be competed for by State and local communities. It's an
amendment that should pass.
So what we did is have a national program called AmeriCorps, but we
had two-thirds of it going to the States. Now, the problem with that is
you're going to have some bad programs that might get funded. The good
thing about it is you're going to have some great programs that are
going to be funded. And so former President Clinton took a risk. He
said instead of having a one-size-fits-all, which would mean we'll have
vanilla, and, no one can criticize it, we had some great programs and
some bad programs. So the critics of AmeriCorps then took the bad
programs and started to criticize as if this was all of AmeriCorps, as
if this was the President's national service bill.
Well, the bottom line is we have some great programs. Thank God we
had these programs for people impacted by Katrina and other natural
disasters. In my part of the country, we have young people who are
giving to their neighbors, and if you think they're paid, they're paid
a minimum wage and they have a stipend they can use towards their
education. It gets them to think about their future and get an
education.
But we have people here who will say, well, let's give out Pell
Grants, we're going to give out Pell Grants for nothing; and yet we
have an opportunity to give out grants that someone actually earned.
I can't speak more strongly for this legislation. I congratulate
President
[[Page H1353]]
Clinton for bringing it forward, for working with Republicans, at least
those who were willing to work with him, and for having a program that
has energized young people to be of service.
There are six former Peace Corps volunteers in this House, three
Republicans, three Democrats. If you asked any one of us what was the
most significant time in our lives, it was serving in the Peace Corps.
It was helping others. But we came back more enriched than probably we
gave. And I'm absolutely certain of this, the folks that are doing
national service, they don't get much monetarily, but they give a lot;
and in return they get a lot in terms of their personal development.
They grow as individuals. They have more confidence in themselves. I
think they're better Americans.
I hope whoever's the next President, and we have three good
candidates to choose from, I have a preference obviously, but I think
that they are going to inspire Americans to be of greater service, and
they could use this legislation to help them.
I hope we pass it, and I thank our sponsors for bringing this bill
out. I particularly want to thank our colleagues from New York and from
Pennsylvania for their effort here today. God bless this country and
God bless this program.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Chairman, I'd like to yield 1 minute
to the gentlelady from New Hampshire (Ms. Shea-Porter), a member of the
Healthy Families and Communities Subcommittee.
Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Madam Chairman, as a former social worker and
administrator and a cosponsor of the GIVE Act, I rise today to express
my strong support for H.R. 2857.
I was able to see firsthand the hard work and self-sacrifice and
dedication of our AmeriCorps volunteers during the Katrina recovery
effort. As a relief volunteer myself, I worked side by side with the
AmeriCorps volunteers. You can't say enough about these young people
who gave of themselves and worked tirelessly for many, many hours to
give comfort to their fellow Americans. This convinced me how essential
AmeriCorps and other national service programs really are to this
Nation.
My experiences as a social worker and as an administrator and relief
volunteer have made the reauthorization of this program a high priority
for me, and I'm proud that it's a high priority for this Congress as
well.
I'm also grateful that the committee passed my amendment to increase
the minimum amount of the State formula grants. This increase
acknowledges that these volunteer programs are equally important in
smaller States such as New Hampshire. These programs and the
participants who are in them work miracles for very low money, and we
need to thank them.
Mr. PLATTS. Madam Chairman, I'd like to reserve the balance of my
time at this point.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Kind), a former member of the Education
Committee.
Mr. KIND. Madam Chairman, I want to thank and commend my good friend
Mrs. McCarthy from New York for the wonderful leadership that she has
shown in the reauthorization of this important legislation.
I agree with my good friend and colleague from Connecticut that this
is one of the more important pieces of legislation that we will be
dealing with in this session of Congress, and I commend the efforts of
everyone on the committee for the bipartisan support that's been shown
on behalf of this bill.
Madam Chairman, this legislation will provide a vital increase in
funding for a variety of domestic volunteer service programs, including
AmeriCorps, Volunteers in Service to America, and Learn and Serve
America. Expanding these important community-based programs is
essential so that residents in the neediest places receive the
assistance that they need and deserve.
I'm very proud that my home State of Wisconsin has more than 35
AmeriCorps programs. Jump Start for Young Children is just one of
several programs that help prepare young children from low-income
families to succeed and go on in school. Just this past year, this
program benefited from the service of 3,500 corps members and
volunteers from over 70 colleges. Together, these individuals were able
to assist more than 13,000 preschoolers in over 20 of our States in
this country. I'd like to applaud the hard work and selfless efforts of
these individuals who have not only rebuilt houses in communities but
also lives.
I'm especially proud that three of my congressional staff members are
former AmeriCorps volunteers: Karrie Jackelen, Brad Smith, and David De
Gennaro. The contributions of these participants is truly admirable
given the enormous difference they've made in so many lives.
Mr. Chairman, there is a yearning for community involvement and
community service across this country, and it's especially acute with
the youth, the children of our Nation.
It was unfortunate that the current President sent this Nation to war
without asking for any type of contribution or significant sacrifice
from the average American. Except for our troops and their families who
have borne the brunt of this sacrifice and burden, there's very little
asked of the American people.
This legislation, which was the vision of President Clinton and his
administration, tries to correct that deficiency. It's a good,
bipartisan bill. I encourage my colleagues to pass the GIVE Act today.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I will continue to reserve my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Klein).
Mr. KLEIN of Florida. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of
the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act, otherwise
known as the GIVE Act. This legislation speaks to what makes our
country great, Americans volunteering to give back to their
communities. Volunteerism is so important to helping the less
fortunate, working to better one's community, and instilling a sense of
patriotism and love for one's country.
Volunteers are critical to pulling our country through hard times.
Following the hurricanes that plagued my home State of Florida, I
witnessed firsthand the overwhelming response from volunteers who came
out to respond to the needs of hurricane victims. Volunteers came
together to provide these victims with clothing, food, shelter, and
other items that displaced residents and families needed to get their
lives back on track.
The GIVE Act will continue this strong tradition of volunteerism in
America by increasing community service opportunities and providing new
incentives for volunteering.
{time} 1200
Furthermore, I am proud to support legislation that puts a premium on
disaster preparedness and emergency response.
I would like to commend Representative McCarthy for her work on this
bill and urge my colleagues to support this bill for the betterment of
all our communities and our country as a whole.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, may I inquire as to how much
time is remaining.
The Acting CHAIRMAN (Mr. Holden). Each side has 11 minutes remaining.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, with that, I yield myself as
much time as I may consume.
Mr. Chairman, as we have been working through this bill, through our
hearings and everything else, and listening to the volunteers that work
in AmeriCorps and other aspects of volunteering, and also listening to
our young people from communities that are underserved on how they want
to serve and be part of it, before my colleague from Connecticut (Mr.
Shays) talked about how we've done away with summer jobs. We see in our
communities today more and more of our young people joining gangs and
getting into trouble. We see that our juvenile justice system and our
prisons are being overflowed, unfortunately, with young people. This is
a program that can help them.
You know, I look at our country and I marvel at how people volunteer
and give their time to help other people that are in need. With the
programs that we're putting forth and through the work of the
subcommittee and
[[Page H1354]]
through the work of my colleague Mr. Platts from Pennsylvania, we have
put together a great bill. This is a bill that can help people to the
future. This is a bill that incorporates our elderly and our young. So,
it's something that I think we should all be proud of. And certainly
I'm hoping that we're not going to have any controversies further down
the line.
And may I just say one thing: A number of speakers have gotten up and
talked about the FISA bill. Let me say this to the American people:
With the continuation that we have, this country is being protected.
And we are trying to work it out with our colleagues from the other
side and the administration. But let me make one thing very clear, the
country is being protected. The intelligence committees can do what
they need to do, and our intelligence community is getting information
at that.
With that, Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Chairman, I want to again just thank my subcommittee chairman,
Chairwoman McCarthy, for her leadership on this important legislation,
as well as the full committee Chair, Mr. Miller, and the ranking
member, Mr. McKeon.
As a number of speakers have talked about their own experience and
the gentleman from Connecticut, through his work in the Peace Corps,
these opportunities to participate in the programs that are funded and
authorized under the National Community and Service Act impact not just
those who receive the benefit of the work done, but those who actually
participate. And with a family member who has participated in
AmeriCorps, I have seen that impact on that individual and how they
were a stronger person and better prepared for the rest of their adult
years because of having been part of AmeriCorps.
So, again, I urge a ``yes'' vote for this legislation and look
forward to it moving forward through the House and working with the
Senate to get it to the President's desk.
Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2857,
the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education or ``GIVE''
Act.
This legislation reauthorizes and strengthens our national service
programs. I would like to thank my good friend Carolyn McCarthy,
chairwoman of the Healthy Families and Communities Subcommittee and
Congressman Todd Platts, the ranking member, for their excellent,
bipartisan work on this legislation.
The spirit of service runs strong in America. Many Americans--young
and old, rich and poor--look for ways to give back to their communities
and the Nation. Our national service programs nurture this spirit and
ensure that all American have opportunities to serve.
The GIVE Act will increase the number of Americorps volunteers to
100,000. In my congressional district Americorps volunteers are
promoting community development, improving education, and enhancing the
quality of life for many of our residents. They bring a great deal of
energy and contribute to a strong sense of community in our area.
The GIVE Act fosters an ethic of civic engagement in young people
through a summer of service program that will enable students in middle
and high school to volunteer and earn an education award for college.
The GIVE Act promotes service in areas of national need for global
competitiveness, such as science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics.
The GIVE Act will ensure that we can effectively and efficiently
mobilize volunteers in times of national disaster.
The GIVE Act strengthens opportunities for our seniors by providing
flexibility to the senior corps programs. In my congressional district,
we have very strong programs that engage our seniors in service and
provide them companionship and support. Our seniors continue to make
tremendous contributions to our communities. We cannot afford to let
their talent or energy go to waste.
My home State of Texas is a big believer in national service. We have
48,000 senior corps members. Since 1994, 24,000 Texans have earned
education awards by serving as Americorps volunteers; 48,000 students
have participated in Learn and Serve America, linking service with
academic achievement.
The GIVE act will make this great tradition of service even stronger.
I urge all of my colleagues to vote ``yes.''
Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of
the GIVE Act and I thank my colleague Mrs. Maloney for her leadership
on this issue. Volunteers in our National Service Corps are doing the
hard work of building what I like to call the Beloved Community--a
community at peace with itself based on justice and human dignity.
We all live in one house, the American house, and people are
suffering. We need so many more Americans to volunteer, to share their
talents, their time and their love. That is how we form the Beloved
Community.
So many Americans are giving of themselves through Americorps/VISTA,
Summer of Service, and our Senior Volunteer Corps. Many more want to
give and volunteer, but they can't find the time. They are stuck at
work trying to make ends meet. They sit in traffic. They are helping
their kids with homework. Businesses and governments need to encourage
and allow people to volunteer.
Young people have been behind all of the great social movements in
this Nation. We must tap into the idealism and the talents of our young
people, and the young at heart, who can build bridges and ease
suffering.
Something is happening in America. In Atlanta, we are embracing the
merger between the Points of Light Foundation and the ``Hands On''
Network. I want to mention their good work and their leadership in
recruiting and training volunteers.
I look forward to working with my colleagues to find more ways, like
competitive grants for nonprofits, to expand our volunteer
infrastructure, to push our national service agenda forward.
The GIVE Act is a good bill. It has my support. I thank my
colleagues.
Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Chairman, throughout our history, American
citizens have never hesitated to heed the call to service. They have
answered in times of peace and prosperity, in times of war and
recession. They have donated time and money and sweat--as much as they
could, whenever it was needed.
When our Nation faced the Great Depression, President Roosevelt
formed the Civilian Conservation Corps and put citizens to work for the
national interest. When we faced political uncertainty in the world,
President Kennedy challenged our young people to serve and dispatched
the Peace Corps on missions of international aid and public diplomacy.
And when neighbors have challenges, when communities struggle, or when
the Nation sees tragedy, our citizens rally and lend a hand.
In recent years, we have seen some of the largest increases in
volunteerism in history. This new trend is led by our young people, who
are serving in record numbers. The number of college students who
volunteer increased by 20 percent between 2002 and 2005. And the
programs we consider today are a key part of that service.
Today's legislation will increase enrollment in AmeriCorps and
establish ways to deploy AmeriCorps alumni in times of national need.
It will establish an Office of Outreach and Recruitment to match new
volunteers with service opportunities. It will create a new program, a
Summer of Service, to encourage more young people to help their
communities. It will strengthen our emergency preparedness and disaster
response with improvements to the National Civilian Community Corps.
And it will challenge our scientists, mathematicians, and engineers to
meet our Nation's technical needs with creativity and innovation.
Mr. Chairman, Americans have made tremendous investments through
national service. Let us, in turn, pass this legislation today to
assist their efforts and continue their commitment to our Nation's
future.
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in
strong support of the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and
Education Act. The GIVE Act will expand the Corporation for National
and Community Service which has been instrumental in helping connect
Americans to high quality, meaningful service and service-learning
opportunities. The GIVE Act will increase the benefits of service
available to more participants and more communities, improve program
quality, ensure participant diversity, increase the value of the
AmeriCorps education award, and reduce the age eligibility for Senior
Corps to 55.
In the last 14 years more than 500,000 individuals have served
through AmeriCorps and have earned education awards worth more than
$1.5 billion. Senior Corps members have generated more than 1 billion
volunteer service hours, and more than 15 million young people have
participated in service-learning initiatives funded by Learn and Serve
America. In addition, the national service programs have provided
opportunities for growing numbers of Americans to serve our Nation.
Since AmeriCorps was created in 1994, Texas has benefited from over
22,000 young people serving for at least 1 year in our communities.
Through programs such as the ``National Civilian Community Corps'' and
``City Year,'' AmeriCorps volunteers address critical Texas needs in
the areas of education, public safety, disaster response and recovery,
and environment preservation. These programs serve the important role
of providing an outlet for service to the country in a manner
previously not afforded.
[[Page H1355]]
Mr. Chairman, the AmeriCorps program has done great things for Texas
and this Nation as a whole, as is reflected in the AmeriCorps members
pledge to ``get things done.'' I am indeed honored to support this
wonderful program which represents the very best of the United States
of America.
Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I would like to thank the Committee on
Education and Labor for all of their work in bringing this bill to the
floor today.
National service is one of the most productive, cost efficient
investments the Federal Government can make.
My wife Betsi and I were Peace Corps volunteers and we call ourselves
volunteers because we gave 2 years of our lives in service to others.
Americorps is a similar program to Peace Corps. It takes 18, 19, 20-
year-old kids and gives them an opportunity to work in a program
mentored by various nonprofit organizations.
The passion of participants in Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, and other
national service programs is undeniable. As they give back to their
country they also learn something about themselves, each other, and the
world around them.
I am pleased H.R. 2857 expands the AmeriCorps program and increases
the education award, which participants in the program receive upon
completion of service.
As the cost of a college education increases, students often have to
choose between public service careers and other jobs to pay back
student loans.
I am also pleased we are making amendments in order under this rule
because I believe they will strengthen this underlying reauthorization.
Congresswoman Matsui and I have offered an amendment to streamline
funding for State and national AmeriCorps programs, which will
encourage coordination, efficiency, and high quality programs.
Furthermore, this amendment will improve the collaboration between
State and national entities to better serve local needs.
Congressman McDermott, Congressman Farr and I have offered an
amendment to establish a Congressional Commission on Civic service that
will investigate ways to increase and encourage service opportunities
throughout the country.
The Commission will consider and promote ideas to inspire community
service initiatives around the Nation.
There is no substitute for the passion of our Nation's volunteers,
who can be found mentoring students, building houses, assisting senior
citizens or beautifying our national parks.
As a co-sponsor of this legislation, I am proud to support national
service initiatives and encourage my colleagues to support this
important reauthorization today.
Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I would like to take a minute to
recognize an enduring legacy of John F. Kennedy--the Peace Corps--in
recognition of its 47th anniversary this year. It is an honor to serve
with the likes of my colleague and friend Chris Shays and others in
this body and the others who serves our country in the enhancement of
citizen diplomacy. I hope all Americans will join us in supporting and
expanding this enduring commitment to convey our values as a Nation.
As Fareed Zakaria wrote: ``We must begin to think about life after
Bush--a cheering prospect for his foes, a dismaying one for his fans
(however few there may be at the moment). In 11 months he will be a
private citizen, giving speeches to insurance executives. America,
however, will have to move on and restore its place in the world. To do
this we must first tackle the consequences of our foreign policy of
fear. Having spooked ourselves into believing that we have no option
but to act fast, alone, unilaterally and pre-emptively, we have managed
in six years to destroy decades of international good will, alienate
allies, embolden enemies and yet solve few of the major international
problems we face.''
The London Financial Times last December reported that the U.S. has
suffered a significant loss of power and prestige around the world in
the years since the beginning of this century, limiting our ability to
influence international crises, according to an annual survey from a
well regarded British security think-tank. The 2007 Strategic Survey of
the non-partisan International Institute for Strategic Studies' picked
the decline of U.S. authority as one of the most important security
developments of the past year--but suggested the fading of American
prestige began earlier, largely due to its failings in Iraq.
One of our most special and effective citizen agencies of public
diplomacy is the Peace Corps. Think of this--more than 187,000
volunteers have served this venerable legacy of former President
Kennedy, serving in 139 countries--where they bring our values to other
peoples, and bring understanding and appreciation of other cultures
back home.
The greatest gift of the Peace Corps and other civilian programs is
not just that ordinary Americans share their values and our culture
with other peoples, but also that when volunteers return, they bring
greater understanding and appreciation of other cultures.
Foreign policy is not just what we do, but also who we are. America
as a place has often been the great antidote to U.S. foreign policy--
and it should be again. Mr. Zakaria writes that ``When American actions
across the world have seemed harsh, misguided or unfair, America itself
has always been open, welcoming and tolerant. . .''
At the end of the day, our openness is our greatest foreign policy.
We have succeeded not because of the ingenuity of our government, but
rather because of efforts like this unique program to keep ourselves
open to the world--to sending our people out across the countries of
the world to share our unique culture, our goods and services, our
ideas and inventions, our people and cultures. This openness, this
civilian diplomacy, has allowed us to make friends across boundaries.
It will be central to our place as a nation in the future.
This week, as we celebrate National Peace Corps Week, we honor the
more than 190,000 volunteers who have served in 139 developing
countries since President Kennedy's call to service in 1961--and I
honor 44 of my constituents currently serving our country in places as
diverse as China, Mali, Azerbaijan, Macedonia, El Salvador, and
Namibia. This can be lonely and demanding service, but service that can
create enduring friendships and values that transcend boundaries and
cultures.
Today, more than 8,000 Peace Corps volunteers around the world are
currently providing training and education in 74 countries. These
volunteers each donate their time and skills for over 2 years, in order
to make a difference in the world and to promote understanding between
cultures. By offering their valuable skills and showing a passion for
helping others, they show the world that Americans value learning and
cross-cultural exchange.
Volunteers work in areas of education, health and HIV/AIDS, business
development, environment, agriculture and youth, and must often be
creative and flexible when living and working in new cultures and
learning new languages. The resulting experience is rewarding for all
involved, and it highlights the importance of cooperation and
involvement between cultures around the globe.
When volunteers return home and share their overseas experiences with
their communities, the Peace Corps helps Americans as much as the
people in developing countries. From recent college graduates to
doctors with decades of experience, volunteers choose to use their
valuable skills and education to help people all over the world, but
their work affects their lives long after returning home.
This week we remember the dedication and passion of Peace Corps
volunteers, young and old, current and returned. We thank them for
their service, and encourage more Americans to volunteer with the Peace
Corps.
Sworn-in Volunteers In the District of VA-08
Volunteer Name, Country of Service, Start of SVC Date, Projected COS
Date
Adriance, Joel E, ECUADOR, 31-Aug-2005, 30-Sep-2008.
Armitage, Emily M, BULGARIA, 19-Oct-2006, 10-Oct-2008.
Arnaoudova, Ina M, AZERBAIJAN, 13-Sep-2006, 12-Sep-2008.
Ballenger, Charles J, EL SALVADOR, 30-Nov-2006, 28-Nov-
2008.
Banks, Cecilia M, ECUADOR, 31-Aug-2005, 30-Sep-2008.
Bergin, Sarah M, SURINAME, 03-Aug-2006, 03-Aug-2008.
Braslavsky, Gelena, BULGARIA, 29-Jun-2007, 30-Jun-2009.
Cabrera, Luis J, NICARAGUA, 20-Jul-2007, 17-Jul-2009.
Calnan, Shannon M, ROMANIA, 27-Jul-2007, 26-Jul-2009.
Chadbourn Iv, Charles C, COSTA RICA, 14-Sep-2006, 19-Sep-
2008.
Cohen, Matthew B, GHANA, 21-Aug-2007, 20-Aug-2009.
Davies, Meghan E, HONDURAS, 20-Apr-2006, 14-Mar-2008.
Doherty, Jennifer J, JAMAICA, 25-Aug-2006, 25-Aug-2008.
Ferrara, Erin J, FIJI, 03-Aug-2006, 03-Aug-2008.
Ficke, Melanie K, HONDURAS, 07-Sep-2006, 06-Sep-2008.
GarciaLahiguera, Andres J, ROMANIA, 27-Jul-2007, 26-Jul-
2009.
Geurtsen, Christopher P, VANUATU, 21-Jun-2007, 19-Jun-2009.
Glock, Porter O, FIJI, 03-Aug-2006, 03-Aug-2008.
Guachamin, Marcela A, COSTA RICA, 18-May-2007, 15-May-2009.
Gustafson, Kevin L, GUYANA, 26-Jul-2007, 25-Jul-2009.
Houk, Kathryn G, BOLIVIA, 28-Jul-2006, 01-Aug-2008.
Huckstep, Melanie L, CHINA, 07-Sep-2007, 08-Sep-2009.
Hurley, Emelia M, BOLIVIA, 13-Apr-2006, 11-Apr-2008.
Infantino, Ann Marie C, HONDURAS, 27-Sep-2007, 25-Sep-2009.
[[Page H1356]]
Johnston, Elizabeth A, PARAGUAY, 21-Apr-2006, 18-Apr-2008.
Landrigan, Gregory J, PANAMA, 28-Jul-2005, 04-Sep-2008.
Luckett, Christina C, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, 26-May-2006, 05-
May-2008.
Mandt, Kehl R, CHINA, 09-Jun-2005, 16-Aug-2009.
Milanowski, Elissa N, NAMIBIA, 06-Jan-2006, 30-Mar-2008.
Morris, Katherine M, ALBANIA, 13-Jun-2007, 13-Jun-2009.
Morrow, Katherine J, CHINA, 07-Sep-2007, 08-Sep-2009.
Neidorf, Katherine A, MACEDONIA, 15-Dec-2006, 14-Dec-2008.
Norko, Sara M, PHILIPPINES, 03-Aug-2007, 03-Aug-2009.
Papernick, Rachel J, HONDURAS, 27-Sep-2007, 25-Sep-2009.
Pasley, Virginia B, UKRAINE, 21-Dec-2006, 18-Dec-2008.
Rooney, Kieran E, MOLDOVA, 16-Aug-2007, 14-Aug-2009.
Schiller, Malaika L, BENIN, 22-Sep-2006, 22-Sep-2008.
Shah, Rekha, PHILIPPINES, 03-Aug-2007, 03-Aug-2009.
Shanahan, Kara A, EL SALVADOR, 16-Aug-2007, 13-Aug-2009.
Slotnick, Jennifer A, GUATEMALA, 27-Jul-2006, 26-Jul-2008.
Soto, Jocelyn D, UKRAINE, 21-Dec-2006, 18-Dec-2008.
Vance, Jessica H. EL SALVADOR, 19-Apr-2007, 24-Apr-2009.
Wagner, Ariel E, MALI, 25-Nov-2005, 25-May-2008.
Zehner, Amanda L, GAMBIA, 13-Apr-2007, 15-Apr-2009.
Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Generations Invigorating
Volunteerism and Education Act, the GIVE Act, H.R. 2857. I congratulate
Chairman Miller and Chairwoman McCarthy and Ranking Members McKeon and
Platts on their work toward this day and moving us closer to finally
reauthorizing the Corportation for National and Community Service.
There are many noteworthy programs in the GIVE Act, including Senior
Corps and AmeriCorps, which give countless Americans the opportunity to
volunteer. Today, I would like to bring attention to a new and very
promising program that I have worked to include in the GIVE Act. This
new part of the law will provide grants to non-profit organizations to
encourage increased volunteer, community, workforce, and educational
participation in older adults.
Recent research shows that Americans in the second half of life--
regardless of income, educational level, or race--want to explore
options for the next stage of life, including service opportunities,
obtaining new training, retooling existing skills, pursuing educational
interests, and exploring flexible work.
This initiative is a timely and necessary way to help the large U.S.
`boomer' generation make the transition to a new productive life phase
by providing support and community connections for ongoing learning,
development, and contribution to society. Similar programs currently
function as an initiative of Civic Ventures and are a proven success.
I am hopeful that we will be able to bring a program to my district
to assist those that are in a transition period, whether they have lost
a job, are looking for a career change, or would like to move into a
volunteer role in the community.
Mr. Chairman, again I thank the leadership of the Education and Labor
Committee and its excellent staff for assisting in securing this
program authorization and in moving the GIVE Act forward.
Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong
support of H.R. 2857, the ``Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and
Education Act'' or the ``GIVE Act.'' I would like to thank my colleague
Congresswoman McCarthy for introducing this important legislation, as
well as the Chairman of the Committee on Education and Labor,
Congressman George Miller, for his leadership in bringing the bill to
the floor today.
Mr. Chairman, this legislation will make vital strides toward
expanding and improving key community service programs, including
AmeriCorps, VISTA, Senior Corps, and Learn and Serve America. The GIVE
Act works to ensure that volunteers, and the organizations that support
them, will receive the resources that they need to continue their vital
work in our communities.
Today's legislation embodies the altruistic spirit that has made our
Nation great. Great numbers of Americans donate their time and their
unique skills and gifts to our cities and communities, without any
expectation of compensation or material reward. According to a 2005
study, 29 percent of the American public, or about 65.4 million people,
had volunteered in the past year.
This legislation engages our youth and fosters a sense of civic duty.
At many of our Historically Black Colleges and Universities the idea of
continual service to community is embedded into the very walls of the
institution. Right in this city, Howard University has symbolically and
yet openly stated its belief in service. Veritas and Utilitas, Truth
and Service is on the very seal of the University. Institutions such as
Texas Southern University and Texas A&M University continue to provide
our young people with leadership skills that are grounded in service
and compassion for their fellow man.
That is why I was so pleased to see Section 1202 of this legislation,
giving special consideration to Historically Black Colleges and
Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, and Tribal Colleges and
Universities. I want to thank Chairman Miller for allowing me to add to
this great bill. By adding predominately minority community colleges to
the list of those to receive special consideration, we help so many
more students who have a commitment to service.
Our community colleges are growing as many of our returning veterans,
single parents, and seniors desire to make a change in their life
circumstances and simply cannot afford traditional higher education. A
sense of civic engagement is not fostered only among students at
Harvard and Berkeley; it is also found among students at community
colleges like Houston Community College and North Harris College. I
thank the Chairman for recognizing this needed addition and
incorporating it into the Manager's Amendment.
The GIVE Act would: (1) increase the number of AmeriCorps volunteers
from 75,000 to 100,000 by 2012; (2) increase stipends for AmeriCorps
volunteers from $4,725 to $5,225 by 2012; (3) initiate a ``Summer of
Service'' program for young people from middle school through high
school to give them the opportunity to spend a summer in service to
their community, for which they would receive a $500 stipend for
college or for college preparation; and (4) create an AmeriCorps Alumni
Reserves Network aimed at tapping into the skills and experience of
alumni volunteers, with a particular focus on assisting during
emergencies or natural disasters.
I am proud to cosponsor legislation that will add service before self
to our leaders of tomorrow. I urge my colleagues to join me in
supporting this legislation.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the
Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act. I would like
to thank Chairman George Miller, Ranking Member McKeon, Chairwoman
McCarthy, and Ranking Member Platts for their work on this bill.
H.R. 2857 reauthorizes the national service programs for the first
time in over 10 years and contains many positive changes and updates
for these programs. During committee consideration of the bill, I added
language to make many of these programs more accessible for court-
involved youth and adults, including individuals who have previously
been incarcerated. I believe that getting these individuals involved in
service could be a positive first step to reintegrating these
individuals into their communities and giving them an avenue to begin
positively participating in society.
Although I support this bill, I remained concerned about one
provision, which requires the recompetition of grants under the Retired
Senior Volunteer Program, RSVP. During committee consideration of this
bill, Congressman Hare and I submitted an amendment that would have
given existing RSVP grantees in good standing priority consideration
for future grants. Since that time, we have worked with the committee
to improve the provision that is in the bill, including giving existing
programs technical assistance and additional time to prepare for
recompetition. I appreciate this work towards a more fair system.
However, I believe that existing programs in good standing should be
given a stronger priority in the recompetition process, whether that is
by only recompeting under-performing programs such as in the Head Start
program or by utilizing a prior experience point system such as in the
TRIO programs. Through serving their communities for many years and in
some cases decades, these existing programs have established strong
ties in their communities on which many seniors rely and from which
many others benefit. I remain concerned that the language in the base
bill will create a recompetition process that will essentially become a
grant-writing competition without consideration for current RSVP
programs' experience and effectiveness.
Although I remain concerned about the recompetition process for RSVP
programs, I intend to support the bill and urge my colleagues to
support it as well.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to
support H.R. 2857, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. All time for general debate has expired.
Pursuant to the rule, the amendment in the nature of a substitute
printed in the bill shall be considered as an original bill for the
purpose of amendment under the 5-minute rule and shall be considered
read.
[[Page H1357]]
The text of the committee amendment is as follows:
H.R. 2857
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of
the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the
``Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act''
or the ``GIVE Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act
is as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
TITLE I--AMENDMENTS TO NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE ACT OF 1990
Sec. 1001. References.
Subtitle A--Amendments to Subtitle A (General Provisions)
Sec. 1101. Purposes; sense of Congress.
Sec. 1102. Definitions.
Subtitle B--Amendments to Subtitle B (Service-Learning)
Sec. 1201. School-based allotments.
Sec. 1202. Higher education provisions.
Sec. 1203. Innovative programs and research.
Subtitle C--Amendments to Subtitle C (National Service Trust Program)
Sec. 1301. Prohibition on grants to Federal agencies; limits on
Corporation costs.
Sec. 1302. E-Corps and technical amendments to types of programs.
Sec. 1303. Types of positions.
Sec. 1304. Conforming repeal relating to training and technical
assistance.
Sec. 1305. Assistance to State Commissions; challenge grants.
Sec. 1306. Allocation of assistance to States and other eligible
entities.
Sec. 1307. Additional authority.
Sec. 1308. State selection of programs.
Sec. 1309. Consideration of applications.
Sec. 1310. Description of participants.
Sec. 1311. Selection of national service participants.
Sec. 1312. Terms of service.
Sec. 1313. Adjustments to living allowance.
Subtitle D--Amendments to Subtitle D (National Service Trust and
Provision of National Service Educational Awards)
Sec. 1401. Availability of funds in the National Service Trust.
Sec. 1402. Individuals eligible to receive a national service
educational award from the Trust.
Sec. 1403. Determination of the amount of national service educational
awards.
Sec. 1404. Disbursement of educational awards.
Sec. 1405. Process of approval of national service positions.
Subtitle E--Amendments to Subtitle E (National Civilian Community
Corps)
Sec. 1501. Purpose.
Sec. 1502. Program components.
Sec. 1503. Eligible participants.
Sec. 1504. Summer national service program.
Sec. 1505. Team leaders.
Sec. 1506. Training.
Sec. 1507. Consultation with State Commissions.
Sec. 1508. Authorized benefits for Corps members.
Sec. 1509. Permanent cadre.
Sec. 1510. Contract and grant authority.
Sec. 1511. Other departments.
Sec. 1512. Advisory Board.
Sec. 1513. Annual evaluation.
Sec. 1514. Repeal of funding limitation.
Sec. 1515. Definitions.
Sec. 1516. Terminology.
Subtitle F--Amendments to Subtitle F (Administrative Provisions)
Sec. 1601. Family and medical leave.
Sec. 1602. Additional prohibitions on use of funds.
Sec. 1603. Notice, hearing, and grievance procedures.
Sec. 1604. Resolution of displacement complaints.
Sec. 1605. State Commissions on National and Community Service.
Sec. 1606. Evaluation and accountability.
Sec. 1607. Technical amendment.
Sec. 1608. Partnerships with schools.
Sec. 1609. Rights of access, examination, and copying.
Sec. 1610. Additional administrative provisions.
Subtitle G--Amendments to Subtitle G (Corporation for National and
Community Service)
Sec. 1701. Terms of office.
Sec. 1702. Board of Directors authorities and duties.
Sec. 1703. Authorities and duties of the Chief Executive Officer.
Sec. 1704. Nonvoting members; personal services contracts.
Sec. 1705. Donated services.
Sec. 1706. Office of Outreach and Recruitment.
Sec. 1707. Study to examine and increase service programs for veterans
and veterans participation in Service Corps and Community
Service and to develop pilot program.
Subtitle H--Amendments to Subtitle H
Sec. 1801. Technical amendments to subtitle H.
Sec. 1802. Repeals.
Sec. 1803. Innovative and model program support.
Sec. 1804. Clearinghouses.
Subtitle I--American Conservation and Youth Service Corps
Sec. 1811. State application.
Subtitle J--Training and Technical Assistance
Sec. 1821. Training and technical assistance.
Subtitle K--Repeal of Title III (Points of Light Foundation)
Sec. 1831. Repeal.
Subtitle L--Amendments to Title V (Authorization of Appropriations)
Sec. 1841. Authorization of appropriations.
TITLE II--AMENDMENTS TO THE DOMESTIC VOLUNTEER SERVICE ACT OF 1973
Sec. 2001. References.
Subtitle A--Amendments to Title I (National Volunteer Antipoverty
Programs)
Sec. 2101. Purpose.
Sec. 2102. Purpose of the VISTA program.
Sec. 2103. Applications.
Sec. 2104. VISTA programs of national significance.
Sec. 2105. Terms and periods of service.
Sec. 2106. Support Service.
Sec. 2107. Sections repealed.
Sec. 2108. Conforming amendment.
Sec. 2109. Financial assistance.
Subtitle B--Amendments to Title II (National Senior Volunteer Corps)
Sec. 2201. Change in name.
Sec. 2202. Purpose.
Sec. 2203. Grants and contracts for volunteer service projects.
Sec. 2204. Foster Grandparent Program grants.
Sec. 2205. Senior Companion Program grants.
Sec. 2206. Promotion of National Senior Service Corps.
Sec. 2207. Technical amendments.
Sec. 2208. Programs of national significance.
Sec. 2209. Additional provisions.
Sec. 2210. Authority of Director.
Subtitle C--Amendments to Title IV (Administration and Coordination)
Sec. 2301. Nondisplacement.
Sec. 2302. Notice and hearing procedures.
Sec. 2303. Definitions.
Sec. 2304. Protection against improper use.
Subtitle D--Amendments to Title V (Authorization of Appropriations)
Sec. 2401. Authorization of appropriations for VISTA and other
purposes.
Sec. 2402. Authorization of appropriations for National Senior Service
Corps.
Sec. 2403. Administration and coordination.
TITLE III--AMENDMENTS TO OTHER LAWS
Sec. 3101. Inspector General Act of 1978.
TITLE IV--TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO TABLES OF CONTENTS
Sec. 4101. Table of contents for the National and Community Service Act
of 1990.
Sec. 4102. Table of contents for the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of
1973.
TITLE V--EFFECTIVE DATE
Sec. 5101. Effective date.
Sec. 5102. Service assignments and agreements.
TITLE I--AMENDMENTS TO NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE ACT OF 1990
SEC. 1001. REFERENCES.
Except as otherwise specifically provided, whenever in this
title an amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an
amendment to, or repeal of, a provision, the reference shall
be considered to be made to a provision of the National and
Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12501 et seq.).
Subtitle A--Amendments to Subtitle A (General Provisions)
SEC. 1101. PURPOSES; SENSE OF CONGRESS.
(a) Purposes.--Section 2(b) (42 U.S.C. 12501(b)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (2), by striking ``community throughout''
and inserting ``community and service throughout the varied
and diverse communities of'';
(2) in paragraph (4), by inserting after ``income,'' the
following: ``geographic location,'';
(3) in paragraph (6), by inserting after ``existing'' the
following: ``national'';
(4) in paragraph (7)--
(A) by striking ``programs and agencies'' and inserting
``programs, agencies, and communities''; and
(B) by striking ``and'' at the end;
(5) in paragraph (8), by striking the period and inserting
a semicolon; and
(6) by adding at the end the following:
``(9) expand and strengthen service-learning programs
through year-round opportunities, including during the summer
months, to improve the education of children and youth and to
maximize the benefits of national and community service, in
order to renew the ethic of civic responsibility and the
spirit of community to children and youth throughout the
United States;
``(10) assist in coordinating and strengthening Federal and
other citizen service opportunities, including opportunities
for participation in emergency and disaster preparedness,
relief, and recovery;
``(11) increase service opportunities for our Nation's
retiring professionals, including such opportunities for
those retiring from the science, technical, engineering, and
mathematics professions to improve the education of our
Nation's youth and keep America competitive in the global
knowledge economy, and to further utilize the experience,
knowledge, and skills of older Americans;
``(12) encourage the continued service of the alumni of the
national service programs, including service in times of
national need; and
``(13) encourage members of the Baby Boom generation to
partake in service opportunities.''.
(b) Sense of Congress.--The Act is amended by inserting
after section 2 the following:
``SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
``It is the sense of Congress that the number of
participants in the AmeriCorps programs, including the
Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) and the National
Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), should grow to reach 100,000
participants by 2012.''.
SEC. 1102. DEFINITIONS.
Section 101 (42 U.S.C. 12511) is amended--
[[Page H1358]]
(1) by redesignating--
(A) paragraphs (21) through (29) as paragraphs (28) through
(36), respectively;
(B) paragraphs (9) through (20) as paragraphs (15) through
(26), respectively; and
(C) paragraphs (7) and (8) as paragraphs (10) and (11),
respectively; and
(D) paragraphs (3) through (6) as paragraphs (5) through
(8), respectively;
(2) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) Approved summer of service position.--The term
`approved summer of service position' means a position in a
program described under section 111(a)(5) for which the
Corporation has approved the provision of a summer of service
educational award as one of the benefits to be provided for
successful service in the position.
``(4) Baby boom generation.--The term `Baby Boom
generation' means the generation that consists of individuals
born during the period beginning with 1946 and ending with
1964.'';
(3) in paragraph (5) (as so redesignated), by striking
``described in section 122'';
(4) in paragraph (7) (as so redesignated), by striking
``church or other'';
(5) by inserting after paragraph (8) (as so redesignated)
the following:
``(9) Disadvantaged youth.--The term `disadvantaged youth'
includes those youth who are economically disadvantaged and
one or more of the following:
``(A) Who are out-of-school youth, including out-of-school
youth who are unemployed.
``(B) Who are in or aging out of foster care.
``(C) Who have limited English proficiency.
``(D) Who are homeless or who have run away from home.
``(E) Who are at-risk to leave school without a diploma.
``(F) Who are former juvenile offenders or at risk of
delinquency.'';
(6) by inserting after paragraph (11) (as so redesignated)
the following:
``(12) Grantmaking entity.--The term `grantmaking entity'
means a public or private nonprofit organization that--
``(A) has experience with service-learning or with meeting
unmet human, educational, environmental, or public safety
needs;
``(B) was in existence at least one year before the date on
which the organization submitted an application under the
national service laws; and
``(C) meets other such criteria as the Chief Executive
Officer may establish.
``(13) Hispanic-serving institution.--The term `Hispanic-
serving institution' has the meaning given the term in
section 502(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1101a(a)).
``(14) Historically black college or university.--The term
`historically black college or university' means a part B
institution, as defined in section 322 of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1101a(a)).'';
(7) in paragraph (19) (as so redesignated), by striking
``section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965'' and
inserting ``sections 101(a) and 102(a)(1) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965'';
(8) in paragraph (23)(B) (as so redesignated), by striking
``program in which the participant is enrolled'' and
inserting ``organization receiving assistance under the
national service laws through which the participant is
enrolled in an approved national service position'';
(9) by inserting after paragraph (26) (as so redesignated)
the following:
``(27) Qualified organization.--The term `qualified
organization' means a public or private nonprofit
organization with experience working with school-age youth
that meets such criteria as the Chief Executive Officer may
establish.''; and
(10) by adding at the end the following:
``(37) Tribally controlled college or university.--The term
`tribally controlled college or university' has the meaning
given in section 2 of the Tribally Controlled College or
University Assistance Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. 1801).''.
Subtitle B--Amendments to Subtitle B (Service-Learning)
SEC. 1201. SCHOOL-BASED ALLOTMENTS.
Part I of subtitle B of title I (42 U.S.C. 12521 et seq.)
is amended to read as follows:
``PART I--PROGRAMS FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY STUDENTS
``SEC. 111. ASSISTANCE TO STATES, TERRITORIES, AND INDIAN
TRIBES.
``(a) Allotments to States, Territories, and Indian
Tribes.--The Corporation, in consultation with the Secretary
of Education, may make allotments to State educational
agencies, Territories, and Indian tribes to pay for the
Federal share of--
``(1) planning and building the capacity within the State,
Territory, or Indian tribe to implement service-learning
programs that are based principally in elementary and
secondary schools, including--
``(A) providing training for teachers, supervisors,
personnel from community-based agencies (particularly with
regard to the recruitment, utilization, and management of
participants), and trainers, to be conducted by qualified
individuals or organizations that have experience with
service-learning;
``(B) developing service-learning curricula, consistent
with State or local academic content standards, to be
integrated into academic programs, including an age-
appropriate learning component that provides participants an
opportunity to analyze and apply their service experiences;
``(C) forming local partnerships described in paragraph (2)
or (4) to develop school-based service-learning programs in
accordance with this part;
``(D) devising appropriate methods for research and
evaluation of the educational value of service-learning and
the effect of service-learning activities on communities;
``(E) establishing effective outreach and dissemination of
information to ensure the broadest possible involvement of
community-based agencies with demonstrated effectiveness in
working with school-age youth in their communities; and
``(F) establishing effective outreach and dissemination of
information to ensure the broadest possible participation of
schools throughout the State, with particular attention to
schools identified for school improvement under title I of
the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
6301 et seq.);
``(2) implementing, operating, or expanding school-based
service-learning programs, which may include paying for the
cost of the recruitment, training, supervision, placement,
salaries, and benefits of service-learning coordinators,
through distribution of Federal funds by State educational
agencies, Territories, and Indian tribes made available under
this part to projects operated by local partnerships among--
``(A) local educational agencies; and
``(B) 1 or more community partners that--
``(i) shall include a public or private nonprofit
organization that--
``(I) has a demonstrated expertise in the provision of
services to meet unmet human, education, environmental, or
public safety needs;
``(II) will make projects available for participants, who
shall be students; and
``(III) was in existence at least 1 year before the date on
which the organization submitted an application under section
113; and
``(ii) may include a private for-profit business, private
elementary or secondary school, or Indian tribe (except that
an Indian tribe distributing funds to a project under this
paragraph is not eligible to be part of the partnership
operating that project);
``(3) planning of school-based service-learning programs,
through distribution by State educational agencies,
Territories, and Indian tribes of Federal funds made
available under this part to local educational agencies and
Indian tribes, which planning may include paying for the cost
of--
``(A) the salaries and benefits of service-learning
coordinators; or
``(B) the recruitment, training, supervision, and placement
of service-learning coordinators who may be participants in a
program under subtitle C or receive a national service
educational award under subtitle D, who may be participants
in a project under section 201 of the Domestic Volunteer
Service Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 5001), or who may participate
in a Youthbuild program under section 173A of the Workforce
Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2918a),
who will identify the community partners described in
paragraph (2)(B) and assist in the design and implementation
of a program described in paragraph (2);
``(4) implementing, operating, or expanding school-based
service-learning programs to utilize adult volunteers in
service-learning to improve the education of students,
through distribution by State educational agencies,
Territories, and Indian tribes of Federal funds made
available under this part to--
``(A) local educational agencies;
``(B) Indian tribes (except that an Indian tribe
distributing funds under this paragraph is not eligible to be
a recipient of those funds);
``(C) public or private nonprofit organizations; or
``(D) partnerships or combinations of local educational
agencies and entities described in subparagraph (B) or (C);
and
``(5) establishing or implementing summer of service
programs during the summer months, including the cost of
recruitment, training, and placement of service-learning
coordinators--
``(A) for youth who will be enrolled in any grade from
grade 6 through grade 12 at the end of the summer concerned;
``(B) for community-based service-learning projects that--
``(i) shall--
``(I) meet unmet human, educational, environmental
(including energy conservation and stewardship), emergency
and disaster preparedness, and public service needs; and
``(II) be intensive, structured, supervised, and designed
to produce identifiable improvements to the community; and
``(ii) may include the extension of academic year service-
learning programs into the summer months;
``(C) through the distribution of Federal funds made
available under this part to projects operated by local
partnerships that consist of local educational agencies and--
``(i) public or private elementary schools or secondary
schools;
``(ii) institutions of higher education;
``(iii) public or private non-profit organizations that--
``(I) have a demonstrated expertise in providing services
to meet unmet human, educational, environmental, or public
safety needs; and
``(II) have been in existence for at least 1 year before
the date on which the organization submitted an application
under section 113;
``(iv) for-profit businesses; or
``(v) a consortia of such entities;
``(D) under which any student who completes 100 hours of
service in an approved summer of service position, as
certified through a process determined by the Corporation
through regulations consistent with section 139(f), shall be
eligible for a summer of service educational award of not
more than $500 (or, at the discretion of the Chief Executive
Officer, not more than $1,000 in the case of a participant
who is economically disadvantaged) from funds deposited in
the National Service Trust and distributed by the Corporation
as described in section 148; and
[[Page H1359]]
``(E) subject to the limitation that a student may not
receive more than 2 summer of service educational awards from
funds deposited in the National Service Trust.
``(b) Programs To Encourage Civic Engagement in Service
Learning.--
``(1) In general.--From funds appropriated under section
501(a)(1), and without regard to section 112(b), the
Corporation shall reserve up to 3 percent for competitive
grants to partnerships described in subsection (a)(2) for the
development of service-learning programs that promote greater
civic engagement among elementary and secondary school
students.
``(2) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this subsection, a partnership shall submit an application at
such time, in such manner, and containing such information as
the Corporation may require.
``(3) Activities.--Partnerships receiving grants under this
subsection shall use funds to develop service-learning
curricula that--
``(A) promote a better understanding of the principles of
the Constitution of the United States, the heroes of American
history (including military heroes), and the meaning of the
Oath of Allegiance;
``(B) promote a better understanding of how the Nation's
government functions; and
``(C) promote a better understanding of the importance of
service in the Nation's character.
``(c) Duties of Service-Learning Coordinator.--A service-
learning coordinator referred to in paragraph (2), (3), or
(5) of subsection (a) shall provide services that may
include--
``(1) providing technical assistance and information to,
and facilitating the training of, teachers and assisting in
the planning, development, execution, and evaluation of
service-learning in their classrooms;
``(2) assisting local partnerships described in subsection
(a) in the planning, development, and execution of service-
learning projects, including summer of service programs; and
``(3) carrying out such other duties as the recipient of
assistance under this part may determine to be appropriate.
``(d) Related Expenses.--An entity that receives financial
assistance under this part may, in carrying out the
activities described in subsection (a), use such assistance
to pay for the Federal share of reasonable costs related to
the supervision of participants, program administration,
transportation, insurance, and evaluations and for other
reasonable expenses related to the activities.
``SEC. 112. ALLOTMENTS.
``(a) Indian Tribes and Territories.--Of the amounts
appropriated to carry out this part for any fiscal year, the
Corporation shall reserve an amount of not less than 2
percent and not more than 3 percent for payments to Indian
tribes, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American
Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands,
to be allotted in accordance with their respective needs.
``(b) Allotments Through States.--After reserving the
amount under subsection (a), the Corporation shall use the
remainder of the funds appropriated to carry out this part
for any fiscal year as follows:
``(1) Allotments.--
``(A) School-age youth.--From 50 percent of such remainder,
the Corporation shall allot to each State an amount that
bears the same ratio to 50 percent of such remainder as the
number of school-age youth in the State bears to the total
number of school-age youth of all States.
``(B) Allocation under elementary and secondary education
act of 1965.--From 50 percent of such remainder, the
Corporation shall allot to each State an amount that bears
the same ratio to 50 percent of such remainder as the
allocation to the State for the previous fiscal year under
title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 6311 et seq.) or its successor authority bears to
such allocations to all States.
``(2) Definition.--Notwithstanding section 101, for
purposes of this subsection, the term `State' means each of
the several States, the District of Columbia, and the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
``(c) Reallotment.--If the Corporation determines that the
allotment of a State, Territory, or Indian tribe under this
section will not be required for a fiscal year because the
State, Territory, or Indian tribe did not submit and receive
approval of an application for the allotment under section
113, the Corporation shall make the allotment for such State,
Territory, or Indian tribe available for grants to
grantmaking entities to carry out service-learning programs
as described in section 111(a) in such State, Territory, or
Indian tribe. After grantmaking entities apply for the
allotment with an application at such time and in such manner
as the Corporation requires and receive approval, the
remainder of such allotment shall be available for
reallotment to such other States, Territories, or Indian
tribes with approved applications submitted under section 113
as the Corporation may determine to be appropriate.
``SEC. 113. APPLICATIONS.
``(a) In General.--To be eligible to receive an allotment
under section 112 or an allotment of approved summer of
service positions under section 111(a)(5)(D), a State, acting
through the State educational agency, Territory, or Indian
tribe shall prepare, submit to the Corporation, and obtain
approval of, an application at such time and in such manner
as the Chief Executive Officer may reasonably require.
``(b) Contents.--An application for an allotment under this
part shall include--
``(1) a proposal for a 3-year plan promoting service-
learning, which shall contain such information as the Chief
Executive Officer may reasonably require, including how the
applicant will integrate service opportunities into the
academic program of the participants;
``(2) information about the applicant's efforts to--
``(A) ensure that students of different ages, races, sexes,
ethnic groups, disabilities, and economic backgrounds have
opportunities to serve together;
``(B) include any opportunities for students enrolled in
schools or other programs of education providing elementary
or secondary education to participate in service-learning
programs and ensure that such service-learning programs
include opportunities for such students to serve together;
``(C) involve participants in the design and operation of
the program;
``(D) promote service-learning in areas of greatest need,
including low-income or rural areas; and
``(E) otherwise integrate service opportunities into the
academic program of the participants; and
``(3) assurances that the applicant will comply with the
nonduplication and nondisplacement requirements of section
177 and the grievance procedures required by section 176.
``(c) Application to State, Territory, or Indian Tribe To
Receive Assistance To Carry Out School-Based Service-Learning
Programs.--
``(1) In general.--Any--
``(A) qualified organization, Indian tribe, Territory,
local educational agency, for-profit business, private
elementary, middle, or secondary school, or institution of
higher education that desires to receive financial assistance
under this subpart from a State, Territory, or Indian tribe
for an activity described in section 111(a)(1);
``(B) partnership described in section 111(a)(2) that
desires to receive such assistance from a State, Territory,
or Indian tribe or grantmaking entity described in section
111(a)(2);
``(C) entity described in section 111(a)(3) that desires to
receive such assistance from a State, Territory, or Indian
tribe for an activity described in such section;
``(D) partnership described in section 111(a)(4) that
desires to receive such assistance from a State, Territory,
or Indian tribe for an activity described in such section;
``(E) agency or partnership described in section 111(a)(5)
that desires to receive such assistance, or approved summer
of service positions, from a State, Territory, or Indian
tribe for an activity described in such section to be carried
out through a service-learning program described in section
111,
shall prepare, submit to the State educational agency,
Territory, grantmaking entity, or Indian tribe, and obtain
approval of, an application for the program.
``(2) Submission.--Such application shall be submitted at
such time and in such manner, and shall contain such
information, as the agency, Territory, Indian tribe, or
entity may reasonably require.
``(d) Exception.--Notwithstanding subsections (a) and (b)
of section 112, if less than $20,000,000 is appropriated for
any fiscal year to carry out this part, the Corporation shall
award grants to States, Territories, and Indian tribes from
the amount so appropriated, on a competitive basis to pay for
the Federal share of the activities described in section 111.
``SEC. 114. CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS.
``(a) Priority.--In considering competitive applications
under this part, the Corporation shall give priority to
innovation, sustainability, capacity building, involvement of
disadvantaged youth, and quality of programs, as well as
other criteria approved by the Chief Executive Officer.
``(b) Rejection of Applications.--If the Corporation
rejects an application submitted by a State under section 113
for an allotment, the Corporation shall promptly notify the
State of the reasons for the rejection of the application.
The Corporation shall provide the State with a reasonable
opportunity to revise and resubmit the application and shall
provide technical assistance, if needed, to the State as part
of the resubmission process. The Corporation shall promptly
reconsider such resubmitted application.
``SEC. 115. PARTICIPATION OF STUDENTS AND TEACHERS FROM
PRIVATE SCHOOLS.
``(a) In General.--To the extent consistent with the number
of students in the State, Territory, or Indian tribe or in
the school district of the local educational agency involved
who are enrolled in private nonprofit elementary and
secondary schools, such State, Territory, Indian tribe, or
agency shall (after consultation with appropriate private
school representatives) make provision--
``(1) for the inclusion of services and arrangements for
the benefit of such students so as to allow for the equitable
participation of such students in the programs implemented to
carry out the objectives and provide the benefits described
in this part; and
``(2) for the training of the teachers of such students so
as to allow for the equitable participation of such teachers
in the programs implemented to carry out the objectives and
provide the benefits described in this part.
``(b) Waiver.--If a State, Territory, Indian tribe, or
local educational agency is prohibited by law from providing
for the participation of students or teachers from private
nonprofit schools as required by subsection (a), or if the
Corporation determines that a State, Territory, Indian tribe,
or local educational agency substantially fails or is
unwilling to provide for such participation on an equitable
basis, the Chief Executive Officer shall waive such
requirements and shall arrange for the provision of services
to such students and teachers. Such waivers shall be subject
to the requirements of sections 9503 and 9504 of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
7883 and 7884).
``SEC. 116. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL CONTRIBUTIONS.
``(a) Federal Share.--
[[Page H1360]]
``(1) In general.--The Federal share of the cost of
carrying out a program for which assistance is provided under
this part may not exceed 50 percent of the total cost of the
program.
``(2) Non-federal contribution.--In providing for the
remaining share of the cost of carrying out such a program,
each recipient of assistance under this part--
``(A) shall provide for such share through a payment in
cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including facilities,
equipment, or services; and
``(B) may provide for such share through State sources or
local sources, including private funds or donated services.
``(b) Waiver.--The Chief Executive Officer may waive the
requirements of subsection (a) in whole or in part with
respect to any such program for any fiscal year if the
Corporation determines that such a waiver would be equitable
due to a lack of available financial resources at the local
level.
``SEC. 116A. LIMITATIONS ON USES OF FUNDS.
``Not more than 6 percent of the amount of assistance
received by an applicant in a fiscal year may be used to pay,
in accordance with such standards as the Corporation may
issue, for administrative costs, incurred by--
``(1) the original recipient; or
``(2) the entity carrying out the service-learning program
supported with the assistance.''.
SEC. 1202. HIGHER EDUCATION PROVISIONS.
Section 119 (42 U.S.C. 12561) is redesignated as section
117 and amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by inserting after ``community
service programs'' the following: ``through service-
learning'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``combination'' and inserting ``consortia'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by adding ``and'' at the end; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) may coordinate with service-learning curricula being
offered in the academic curricula at the institution of
higher education or at one or more members of the
consortia;'';
(3) in subsection (b)(3)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``teachers at the elementary, secondary, and postsecondary
levels'' and inserting ``institutions of higher education and
their faculty'';
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``education of the
institution; and'' and inserting ``curricula of the
institution to strengthen the instructional capacity of
service-learning at the elementary and secondary levels;'';
(C) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as subparagraph (E);
and
(D) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following:
``(B) including service-learning as a key component of the
health professionals curricula, including nursing, pre-
medicine, medicine, and dentistry curricula of the
institution;
``(C) including service-learning as a key component of the
criminal justice professionals curricula of the institution;
``(D) including service-learning as a key component of the
public policy and public administration curricula of the
institution; and'';
(4) by striking subsections (c), (d), (e), and (g);
(5) by redesignating subsection (f) as (i); and
(6) by inserting after subsection (b) the following:
``(c) Special Consideration.--To the extent practicable,
the Corporation shall give special consideration to
applications submitted by predominantly Black institutions,
Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-
serving institutions, and Tribal Colleges and Universities.
``(d) Federal, State, and Local Contributions.--
``(1) Federal share.--
``(A) In general.--The Federal share of the cost of
carrying out a program for which a grant is made under this
part may not exceed 50 percent of the total cost of the
program.
``(B) Non-federal contribution.--In providing for the
remaining share of the cost of carrying out such a program,
each recipient of a grant under this part--
``(i) shall provide for such share through a payment in
cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including facilities,
equipment, or services; and
``(ii) may provide for such share through State sources or
local sources, including private funds or donated services.
``(2) Waiver.--The Chief Executive Officer may waive the
requirements of paragraph (1) in whole or in part with
respect to any such program for any fiscal year if the
Corporation determines that such a waiver would be equitable
due to a lack of available financial resources at the local
level.
``(e) Application for Grant.--
``(1) Submission.--To receive a grant or enter into a
contract under this part, an applicant shall prepare, submit
to the Corporation, and obtain approval of, an application at
such time, in such manner, and containing such information
and assurances as the Corporation may reasonably require. In
requesting applications for assistance under this part, the
Corporation shall specify such required information and
assurances.
``(2) Contents.--An application submitted under paragraph
(1) shall contain, at a minimum--
``(A) assurances that--
``(i) prior to the placement of a participant, the
applicant will consult with the appropriate local labor
organization, if any, representing employees in the area who
are engaged in the same or similar work as that proposed to
be carried out by such program, to prevent the displacement
and protect the rights of such employees; and
``(ii) the applicant will comply with the nonduplication
and nondisplacement provisions of section 177 and the
grievance procedures required by section 176; and
``(B) such other assurances as the Chief Executive Officer
may reasonably require.
``(f) Priority.--In making grants and entering into
contracts under subsection (b), the Corporation shall give
priority to applicants or institutions that submit
applications containing proposals that--
``(1) demonstrate the commitment of the institution of
higher education, other than by demonstrating the commitment
of the students, to supporting the community service projects
carried out under the program;
``(2) specify the manner in which the institution will
promote faculty, administration, and staff participation in
the community service projects;
``(3) specify the manner in which the institution will
provide service to the community through organized programs,
including, where appropriate, clinical programs for students
in professional schools and colleges;
``(4) describe any partnership that will participate in the
community service projects, such as a partnership comprised
of--
``(A) the institution;
``(B)(i) a community-based agency;
``(ii) a local government agency; or
``(iii) a non-profit entity that serves or involves school-
age youth, older adults, or low-income communities; and
``(C)(i) a student organization;
``(ii) a department of the institution; or
``(iii) a group of faculty comprised of different
departments, schools, or colleges at the institution;
``(5) demonstrate community involvement in the development
of the proposal;
``(6) describe research on effective strategies and methods
to improve service utilized in the design of the project;
``(7) specify that the institution will use such assistance
to strengthen the service infrastructure in institutions of
higher education; or
``(8) with respect to projects involving delivery of
services, specify projects that involve leadership
development of school aged youth.
``(g) Definition.--Notwithstanding section 101, as used in
this part, the term `student' means an individual who is
enrolled in an institution of higher education on a full- or
part-time basis.
``(h) Federal Work-Study.--To be eligible for assistance
under this part, an institution of higher education must
demonstrate that it meets the minimum requirements under
section 443(b)(2)(B) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (42
U.S.C. 2753(b)(2)(B)) relating to the participation of
Federal Work-Study students in community service activities,
or has received a waiver of those requirements from the
Secretary of Education.''.
SEC. 1203. INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS AND RESEARCH.
Subtitle B of title I (42 U.S.C. 12521 et seq.) is further
amended by adding after part II the following new part:
``PART III--INNOVATIVE SERVICE-LEARNING PROGRAMS AND RESEARCH
``SEC. 118. INNOVATIVE DEMONSTRATION SERVICE-LEARNING
PROGRAMS AND RESEARCH.
``(a) In General.--From the amounts appropriated to carry
out this part for a fiscal year, the Corporation may make
grants and fixed amount grants under subsection (f) with
eligible entities for activities described in subsection (c).
``(b) Eligible Entities Defined.--For purposes of this
part, the term `eligible entity' means a State education
agency, a State commission, a Territory, an Indian tribe, an
institution of higher education, a public or private
nonprofit organization, or a consortia of such entities,
where a consortia of two or more such entities may also
include a for-profit organization.
``(c) Authorized Activities.--Funds under this part may be
used to--
``(1) integrate service-learning programs into the science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curricula at
the elementary, secondary, or post-secondary and post-
baccalaureate levels in coordination with practicing or
retired STEM professionals;
``(2) involve students in service-learning programs
focusing on energy conservation in their community, including
conducting educational outreach on energy conservation and
working to improve energy efficiency in low income housing
and in public spaces;
``(3) involve students in service-learning projects in
emergency and disaster preparedness;
``(4) involve students in service-learning projects aimed
at improving access to and obtaining the benefits from
computers and other emerging technologies, including in low
income or rural communities, senior centers and communities,
schools, libraries, and other public spaces;
``(5) involve high school age youth in the mentoring of
middle school youth while involving all participants in
service-learning to seek to meet unmet human, educational,
environmental, public safety, or emergency disaster
preparedness needs in their community;
``(6) conduct research and evaluations on service-learning,
including service-learning in middle schools, and disseminate
such research and evaluations widely;
``(7) conduct innovative and creative activities as
described in section 111(a); and
``(8) carry out any other innovative service-learning
programs or research that the Corporation considers
appropriate.
``(d) Priority.--Priority shall be given to programs that--
``(1) involve students and community stakeholders in the
design and implementation of the service-learning program;
[[Page H1361]]
``(2) implement service-learning programs in low-income or
rural communities; and
``(3) utilize adult volunteers, including tapping the
resource of retired and retiring adults, in the planning and
implementation of the service-learning programs.
``(e) Requirements.--
``(1) Three-year term.--Each program funded under this part
shall be carried out over a period of three years, including
one planning year and two additional grant years, with a 1-
year extension possible, if the program meets performance
measures developed in accordance with section 179(a) and any
other criteria determined by the Corporation.
``(2) Encouragement.--Each program funded under this part
is encouraged to collaborate with other Learn and Serve
programs, AmeriCorps, VISTA, and the National Senior Service
Corps.
``(3) Evaluation.--Upon completion of the program, the
Corporation shall conduct an independent evaluation of the
program and widely disseminate the results to the service
community through multiple channels, including the
Corporation's Resource Center or a clearinghouse of effective
strategies and recommendations for improvement.
``(f) Fixed Amount Grants.--
``(1) General.--For purposes of subsection (a), and subject
to the limitations in this subsection, the Corporation may,
upon making a determination described in paragraph (2),
approve a fixed amount grant that is not subject to the
Office of Management and Budget cost principles and related
financial recordkeeping requirements.
``(2) Determination.--Before approving a fixed amount
grant, the Corporation must determine that--
``(A) the reasonable and necessary costs of carrying out
the terms of the grant significantly exceed the amount of
assistance provided by the Corporation; or
``(B) based on the nature or design of the grant, any
assistance provided by the Corporation can be reasonably
presumed to be expended on reasonable and necessary costs.
``(3) Matching funds.--
``(A) In general.--The Federal share of the cost of
carrying out a program for which a grant is made under this
part may not exceed 50 percent of the total cost of the
program.
``(B) Non-federal contribution.--In providing for the
remaining share of the cost of carrying out such a program,
each recipient of a grant under this part--
``(i) shall provide for such share through a payment in
cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including facilities,
equipment, or services; and
``(ii) may provide for such share through State sources or
local sources, including private funds or donated services.
``(g) Applications.--To be eligible to carry out a program
under this part, an entity shall prepare, submit to the
Corporation, and obtain approval of, an application at such
time and in such manner as the Chief Executive Officer may
reasonably require.''.
Subtitle C--Amendments to Subtitle C (National Service Trust Program)
SEC. 1301. PROHIBITION ON GRANTS TO FEDERAL AGENCIES; LIMITS
ON CORPORATION COSTS.
Section 121 (42 U.S.C. 12571) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph
(1), by inserting after ``subdivisions of States,'' the
following: ``Territories,'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in the heading, by striking ``Agreements With Federal
Agencies'' and inserting ``Restrictions on Agreements With
Federal Agencies'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the first sentence by striking ``by the agency.''
and inserting ``by the agency, including programs under the
Public Lands Corps and Urban Youth Corps as described in
section 122(a)(2).''; and
(ii) by striking the second sentence;
(C) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
``(2) Prohibition on grants.--The Corporation may not
provide a grant under this section to a Federal agency.'';
and
(D) in paragraph (3)--
(i) by striking ``receiving assistance under this
subsection'' and inserting ``operating a national service
program''; and
(ii) by striking ``using such assistance'';
(3) in subsection (c)(2)(B), by striking ``to be provided''
and inserting ``to be provided or otherwise approved'';
(4) in subsection (d)--
(A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Five'' and
inserting ``Six''; and
(B) in paragraph (1), by striking ``5 percent'' and
inserting ``6 percent''; and
(5) in subsection (e)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``section 140'' and inserting ``paragraph
(2)'';
(ii) by striking ``Federal share'' and inserting
``Corporation share'';
(iii) by inserting after ``cost'' the following: ``,
including member living allowances, employment-related taxes,
health care coverage, and worker's compensation,''
(iv) by striking ``may not exceed 75 percent of such
cost.'' and inserting ``may not exceed--''; and
(v) by adding at the end the following:
``(A) for the first three years in which the recipient
receives such assistance, 76 percent of such cost;
``(B) for the fourth through ninth years in which the
recipient receives such assistance, a decreasing share of
such cost between 76 percent and 50 percent, as established
by the Corporation in regulation; and
``(C) for the tenth year (and each year thereafter) in
which the recipient receives such assistance, 50 percent of
such cost.'';
(B) by striking paragraph (3);
(C) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3); and
(D) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) Alternative corporation share for programs in rural
or severely economically distressed communities.--Upon
approval by the Corporation, the Corporation share of the
cost, including member living allowances, employment-related
taxes, health care coverage, and worker's compensation, of
carrying out a national service program that receives
assistance under subsection (a) and that is located in a
rural or severely economically distressed community may not
exceed--
``(A) for the first six years in which the recipient
receives such assistance, 76 percent of such cost;
``(B) for the seventh through ninth years in which the
recipient receives such assistance, a decreasing share of
such cost between 76 and 65 percent as established by the
Corporation in regulation; and
``(C) for the tenth year (and each year thereafter) in
which the recipient receives such assistance, 65 percent of
such cost.'';
(E) in paragraph (3) (as so redesignated), in subparagraph
(B), by inserting after ``other Federal sources'' the
following: ``including funds authorized under Youthbuild
(section 173A of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29
U.S.C. 2918a))''; and
(F) by adding at the end the following:
``(5) Other federal funds.--
``(A) Recipient report.--A recipient of assistance under
section 121 shall report to the Corporation the amount and
source of any Federal funds used to carry out the program
other than those provided by the Corporation.
``(B) Corporation report.--The Corporation shall report to
the Congress on an annual basis information regarding each
recipient that uses Federal funds other than those provided
by the Corporation to carry out the program, including
amounts and sources of other Federal funds.''.
SEC. 1302. E-CORPS AND TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO TYPES OF
PROGRAMS.
Section 122 (42 U.S.C. 12572) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``subsection (b)(1)'' and inserting ``subsection (c)(1)'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``including'' and all
that follows through the semicolon at the end and inserting
``including projects involving urban renewal, sustaining
natural resources, or improving human services;'';
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``including'' and
inserting ``and at least 50 percent of whom are''; and
(iii) in subparagraph (C)(i), by inserting ``, including
mentoring'' before the semicolon;
(C) in paragraph (6)--
(i) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``; or'' and inserting
a semicolon;
(ii) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period and
inserting ``; or''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(D) students participating in service-learning programs
at an institution of higher education.'';
(D) in paragraph (7)(A), by inserting ``, including
elementary and secondary education, and other professions
such as those in health care, criminal justice, environmental
stewardship and conservation, or public safety'' before the
semicolon;
(E) in paragraph (8)(C), by striking ``nonprofit'';
(F) in paragraph (9), by striking ``between the ages of 16
and 24'' and inserting ``between the ages of 16 and 25'';
(G) in paragraph (10), by striking ``gifted young adults''
and all that follows through the period at the end and
inserting ``school-age youth and young adults of all
backgrounds, including gifted youth, along with established
successful entrepreneurs of all backgrounds and professions
from the community in which the program exists to--
``(A) train the participants in utilizing problem-solving,
entrepreneurship, and communication skills to design
solutions to community problems; and
``(B) collaborate with stakeholders in the communities to
implement the solutions devised by the participants in
subparagraph (A).'';
(H) in paragraph (12)(A), by striking ``learning and
recreation'' and inserting ``learning, recreation, and
mentoring'';
(I) in paragraph (13), by striking ``and to combat rural
poverty, including'' and inserting ``, including the issues
of rural poverty,'';
(J) by redesignating paragraph (15) as paragraph (19); and
(K) by inserting after paragraph (14) the following:
``(15) An E-Corps program that involves participants who
provide services in a community by developing and assisting
in carrying out technology programs which seek to increase
access to technology and the benefits thereof in such
community.
``(16) A program that engages citizens in public safety,
public health, and emergency and disaster preparedness, and
may include the recruitment and placing of qualified
participants in positions to be trainees as law enforcement
officers, firefighters, search and rescue personnel, and
emergency medical service workers, and may engage Federal,
State, and local stakeholders in collaboration to organize
more effective responses to issues of public safety and
public health, emergencies, and disasters.
``(17) A program, initiative, or partnership that seeks to
expand the number of mentors for youths (including by
recruiting high-school and college-aged individuals to enter
into mentoring
[[Page H1362]]
relationships), including mentors for disadvantaged youths,
either through provision of direct mentoring services through
the creative utilization of current and emerging technologies
to connect youth with mentors.
``(18) A program that has the primary purpose of re-
engaging court-involved youth and adults with the goal of
reducing recidivism.'';
(2) by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as (c) and
(d), respectively;
(3) by inserting after subsection (a) the following:
``(b) Innovative Programs To Meet the Needs of Veterans.--
``(1) In general.--From funds appropriated under section
501(a)(2), the Corporation shall reserve up to 3 percent for
competitive grants to eligible recipients under subsection
(a) for the development, either directly or through subgrants
to other entities, of innovative initiatives to address the
unique needs of veterans.
``(2) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this subsection, an entity described in paragraph (1) shall
submit an application at such time, in such manner, and
containing such information as the Corporation may require.
``(3) Activities.--Entities receiving grants under this
subsection shall use funds to develop initiatives that--
``(A) recruit veterans, particularly returning veterans,
into service opportunities;
``(B) promote community-based efforts to meet the unique
needs of military families while a member of the family is
deployed; and
``(C) promote community-based efforts to meet the unique
needs of military families when a member of the family
returns from a deployment.'';
(4) in subsection (c) (as so redesignated), in paragraph
(4), by inserting after ``out-of-school youths,'' the
following: ``disadvantaged youths,'';
(5) in subsection (d) (as so redesignated), in paragraph
(1)(A), by striking ``subsection (b) or (d) of''; and
(6) by adding at the end the following:
``(e) Requirements for Tutors.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
Corporation shall require that each recipient of assistance
under the national service laws that operates a tutoring
program involving elementary or secondary school students
certifies that individuals serving in approved national
service positions as tutors in such program have--
``(A) either--
``(i) obtained their high school diploma; or
``(ii) passed a proficiency test demonstrating that such
individuals have the skills necessary to achieve program
goals; and
``(B) have successfully completed pre- and in-service
training for tutors.
``(2) Exception.--The requirements in paragraph (1) do not
apply to an individual serving in an approved national
service position who is enrolled in an elementary or
secondary school and is providing tutoring services through a
structured, school-managed cross-grade tutoring program.
``(f) Requirements for Tutoring Programs.--Each tutoring
program that receives assistance under the national service
laws shall--
``(1) offer a curriculum that is high quality, research-
based, and consistent with the State academic content
standards required by section 1111 of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311) and the
instructional program of the local educational agency; and
``(2) offer high quality, research-based pre- and in-
service training for tutors.
``(g) Citizenship Training.--The Corporation shall
establish requirements for recipients of assistance under the
national service laws relating to the promotion of
citizenship and civic engagement, that are consistent with
the principles on which citizenship programs administered by
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services are based, among
individuals enrolled in approved national service positions
and approved summer of service positions.''.
SEC. 1303. TYPES OF POSITIONS.
Section 123 (42 U.S.C. 12573) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(A) by inserting after ``subdivision of
a State,'' the following: ``a Territory,''; and
(2) in paragraph (5) by inserting ``National'' before
``Civilian Community Corps''.
SEC. 1304. CONFORMING REPEAL RELATING TO TRAINING AND
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.
Section 125 (42 U.S.C. 1257) is repealed.
SEC. 1305. ASSISTANCE TO STATE COMMISSIONS; CHALLENGE GRANTS.
Section 126 (42 U.S.C. 12576) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``$125,000 and $750,000''
and inserting ``$200,000 and $825,000''; and
(B) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
``(2) Matching requirement.--In making grants to a State
under this subsection, the Corporation shall require the
State to provide matching funds in the following amounts:
``(A) First $100,000.--For the first $100,000 of grant
amounts provided by the Corporation, a State shall not be
required to provide matching funds.
``(B) Amounts greater than $100,000.--For grant amounts of
more than $100,000 and not exceeding $200,000 provided by the
Corporation, a State shall provide $1 from non-Federal
sources for every $2 provided by the Corporation.
``(C) Amounts greater than $200,000.--For grant amounts of
more than $200,000 provided by the Corporation, a State shall
provide $1 from non-Federal sources for every $1 provided by
the Corporation.''; and
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``to national service
programs that receive assistance under section 121'' and
inserting ``to programs supported under the national service
laws''; and
(B) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:
``(3) Amount of assistance.--A challenge grant under this
subsection may provide, for an initial 3-year grant period,
not more than $1 of assistance under this subsection for each
$1 in cash raised from private sources by the program
supported under the national service laws in excess of
amounts required to be provided by the program to satisfy
matching funds requirements. After an initial 3-year grant
period, grants under this subsection may provide not more
than $1 of assistance for each $2 in cash raised from private
sources by the program in excess of amounts required to be
provided by the program to satisfy matching funds
requirements. The Corporation may permit the use of local or
State funds as matching funds if the Corporation determines
that such use would be equitable due to a lack of available
private funds at the local level. The Corporation shall
establish a ceiling on the amount of assistance that may be
provided to a national service program under this
subsection.''.
SEC. 1306. ALLOCATION OF ASSISTANCE TO STATES AND OTHER
ELIGIBLE ENTITIES.
Section 129 (42 U.S.C. 12581) is amended to read as
follows:
``SEC. 129. PROVISION OF ASSISTANCE AND APPROVED NATIONAL
SERVICE POSITIONS.
``(a) 1-Percent Allotment for Certain Territories.--Of the
funds allocated by the Corporation for provision of
assistance under section 121(a) for a fiscal year, the
Corporation shall reserve 1 percent for grants to the United
States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands upon approval by
the Corporation of an application submitted under section
130. The amount allotted as a grant to each such Territory
under this subsection for a fiscal year shall be equal to the
amount that bears the same ratio to 1 percent of the
allocated funds for that fiscal year as the population of the
Territory bears to the total population of such Territories.
``(b) Allotment for Indian Tribes.--Of the funds allocated
by the Corporation for provision of assistance under section
121(a) for a fiscal year, the Corporation shall reserve at
least 1 percent for grants to Indian tribes, to be allotted
by the Corporation on a competitive basis.
``(c) Allotment for National Grants.--Of the funds
allocated by the Corporation for provision of assistance
under section 121(a) for a fiscal year, the Corporation shall
reserve 23 percent for grants to nonprofit organizations to
operate a program in 2 or more States.
``(d) Allotment for State Competitive Grants.--Of the funds
allocated by the Corporation for provision of assistance
under subsection (a) of section 121 for a fiscal year, the
Corporation shall reserve 37.5 percent for innovative grants
to States on a competitive basis.
``(e) Allotment to Certain States on Formula Basis.--
``(1) Grants.--Of the funds allocated by the Corporation
for provision of assistance under subsection (a) of section
121 for a fiscal year, the Corporation shall make a grant to
each of the several States, the District of Columbia, and the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico that submits an application under
section 130 that is approved by the Corporation.
``(2) Allotments.--The amount allotted as a grant to each
such State under this subsection for a fiscal year shall be
equal to the amount that bears the same ratio to 37.5 percent
of the allocated funds for that fiscal year as the population
of the State bears to the total population of the several
States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, in compliance with paragraph (3).
``(3) Minimum amount.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the
minimum grant made available to each State approved by the
Corporation under paragraph (1) for each fiscal year must be
at least $600,000.
``(f) Effect of Failure To Apply.--If a State or Territory
fails to apply for, or fails to give notice to the
Corporation of its intent to apply for an allotment under
this section, or the Corporation does not approve the
application consistent with section 133, the Corporation may
use the amount that would have been allotted under this
section to the State or Territory to--
``(1) make grants (and provide approved national service
positions in connection with such grants) to other
grantmaking entities under section 121 that propose to carry
out national service programs in such State or Territory; and
``(2) make a reallotment to other States or Territories
with approved applications submitted under section 130, to
the extent grant-making entities do not apply as described in
paragraph (1).
``(g) Application Required.--The allotment of assistance
and approved national service positions to a recipient under
this section shall be made by the Corporation only pursuant
to an application submitted by a State or other applicant
under section 130.
``(h) Approval of Positions Subject to Available Funds.--
The Corporation may not approve positions as approved
national service positions under this subtitle for a fiscal
year in excess of the number of such positions for which the
Corporation has sufficient available funds in the National
Service Trust for that fiscal year, taking into consideration
funding needs for national service educational awards under
subtitle D based on completed service. If appropriations are
insufficient to provide the maximum allowable national
service educational awards under subtitle D for all eligible
participants, the Corporation is authorized to make necessary
and reasonable adjustments to program rules.
[[Page H1363]]
``(i) Sponsorship of Approved National Service Positions.--
``(1) Sponsorship authorized.--The Corporation may enter
into agreements with persons or entities who offer to sponsor
national service positions for which the person or entity
will be responsible for supplying the funds necessary to
provide a national service educational award. The
distribution of these approved national service positions
shall be made pursuant to the agreement, and the creation of
these positions shall not be taken into consideration in
determining the number of approved national service positions
to be available for distribution under this section.
``(2) Deposit of contribution.--Funds provided pursuant to
an agreement under paragraph (1) shall be deposited in the
National Service Trust established in section 145 until such
time as the funds are needed.
``(j) Reservation of Funds for Special Assistance.--From
amounts appropriated for a fiscal year pursuant to the
authorization of appropriations in section 501(a)(2) and
subject to the limitation in such section, the Corporation
may reserve such amount as the Corporation considers to be
appropriate for the purpose of making assistance available
under section 126.
``(k) Reservation of Funds To Increase the Participation of
Individuals With Disabilities.--From amounts appropriated for
a fiscal year pursuant to the authorization of appropriations
in section 501(a)(2) and subject to the limitation in such
section, the Chief Executive Officer shall reserve an amount
that is not less than 1 percent of such amount (except that
the amount reserved may not exceed $10,000,000), in order to
make grants to public or private nonprofit organizations to
increase the participation of individuals with disabilities
in national service and for demonstration activities in
furtherance of this purpose.''.
SEC. 1307. ADDITIONAL AUTHORITY.
Part II of subtitle C of title I is amended by inserting
after section 129 (42 U.S.C. 12581) the following:
``SEC. 129A. EDUCATION AWARDS ONLY PROGRAM.
``(a) In General.--From amounts appropriated for a fiscal
year to provide financial assistance under this subtitle and
consistent with the restriction in subsection (b), the
Corporation may, through fixed amount grants under subsection
(d), provide operational assistance to programs that receive
approved national service positions but do not receive funds
under section 121(a).
``(b) Limit on Corporation Grant Funds.--Operational
support under this section may not exceed $600 per individual
enrolled in an approved national service position and may
reach $800 per individual if the program supports at least 50
percent disadvantaged youth.
``(c) Inapplicable Provisions.--The following provisions
shall not apply to programs funded under this section:
``(1) The limitation on administrative costs under section
121(d).
``(2) The matching funds requirements under section 121(e).
``(3) The living allowance and other benefits under
sections 131(e) and section 140 (other than individualized
support services for disabled members under section 140(f)).
``(d) Fixed Amount Grants.--
``(1) General.--For purposes of subsection (a), and subject
to the limitations in this subsection, the Corporation may,
upon making a determination described in paragraph (2),
approve a fixed amount grant that is not subject to the
Office of Management and Budget cost principles and related
financial recordkeeping requirements.
``(2) Determination.--Before approving a fixed amount
grant, the Corporation must determine that--
``(A) the reasonable and necessary costs of carrying out
the terms of the grant significantly exceed the amount of
assistance provided by the Corporation; or
``(B) based on the nature or design of the grant, any
assistance provided by the Corporation can be reasonably
presumed to be expended on reasonable and necessary costs.''.
SEC. 1308. STATE SELECTION OF PROGRAMS.
Section 130 (42 U.S.C. 12582) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by inserting after ``State,'' the following:
``Territory,''; and
(B) by striking ``institution of higher education, or
Federal agency'' and inserting ``or institution of higher
education'';
(2) in subsection (b)(9) by striking ``section 122(c)'' and
inserting ``section 122(d)'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``jobs or positions'' and inserting
``proposed positions''; and
(ii) by striking ``, including'' and all that follows
through the period at the end and inserting a period; and
(B) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``proposed'' before
``minimum'';
(4) in subsection (e)(2) by striking ``were selected'' and
inserting ``were or will be selected'';
(5) in subsection (f)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``a program applicant''
and inserting ``an applicant''; and
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the heading, by striking ``Program applicant'' and
inserting ``Applicant'';
(ii) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``program applicant'' and inserting ``applicant'';
(iii) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by inserting after ``subdivision of a State,'' the
following: ``Territory,''; and
(II) by striking ``institution of higher education, or
Federal agency'' and inserting ``or institution of higher
education''; and
(iv) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) by inserting after ``subdivision of a State,'' the
following: ``Territory,''; and
(II) by striking ``institution of higher education, or
Federal agency'' and inserting ``or institution of higher
education''; and
(6) in subsection (g), by striking the period and inserting
``or is already receiving financial assistance from the
Corporation.''.
SEC. 1309. CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS.
Section 133 (42 U.S.C. 12585) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(2)(B), by striking ``jobs or'';
(2) in subsection (c), by redesignating paragraph (8) as
paragraph (9) and inserting after paragraph (7) the
following:
``(8) The extent to which the program generates the
involvement of volunteers.''; and
(3) in subsection (d)(2)--
(A) by striking subparagraphs (A) and (G), and
redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (F) as subparagraphs
(A) through (E), respectively;
(B) in subparagraph (A) (as so redesignated), by striking
``section 122(c)'' and inserting ``section 122(d)'';
(C) in subparagraph (D) (as so redesignated), by adding
``and'' at the end; and
(D) in subparagraph (E) (as so redesignated), by striking
``; and'' and inserting a period.
SEC. 1310. DESCRIPTION OF PARTICIPANTS.
Section 137 (42 U.S.C. 12591) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking paragraph (3); and
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (4), (5), and (6) as
paragraphs (3), (4), and (5), respectively;
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``paragraph (4)'' and
inserting ``paragraph (3)''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``between the ages of 16
and 25'' and inserting ``a 16-year-old out of school youth or
an individual between the ages of 17 and 25''; and
(3) in subsection (c), by striking ``(a)(5)'' and inserting
``(a)(4)''.
SEC. 1311. SELECTION OF NATIONAL SERVICE PARTICIPANTS.
Section 138 (42 U.S.C. 12592) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a) by striking ``conducted by the
State'' and all that follows through ``or other entity'' and
inserting ``conducted by the entity''; and
(2) in subsection (e)(2)(C) by inserting before the
semicolon at the end the following: ``, particularly those
who were considered at the time of their service
disadvantaged youth''.
SEC. 1312. TERMS OF SERVICE.
Section 139 (42 U.S.C. 12593) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(1), by striking ``not less than 9
months and'';
(2) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``during a period
of--'' and all that follows through the period at the end and
inserting ``during a period of not more than 2 years.''; and
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``as demonstrated by
the participant'' and inserting ``as determined by the
organization responsible for granting a release, if the
participant has otherwise performed satisfactorily and has
completed at least 15 percent of the original term of
service'';
(B) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ``provide to the
participant that portion of the national service educational
award'' and inserting ``certify the participant's eligibility
for that portion of the national service educational award'';
and
(C) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking ``to allow return to
the program with which the individual was serving in order''.
SEC. 1313. ADJUSTMENTS TO LIVING ALLOWANCE.
Section 140 (42 U.S.C. 12594) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``paragraph (3)'' and
inserting ``paragraphs (2) and (3)'';
(B) by striking paragraph (2);
(C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as (2);
(D) by inserting after paragraph (2) (as so redesignated)
the following:
``(3) Federal work-study students.--The living allowance
that may be provided to an individual whose term of service
includes hours for which the individual receives Federal work
study wages shall be reduced by the amount of the
individual's Federal work study award.'';
(E) in paragraph (4), by striking ``a reduced term of
service under section 139(b)(3)'' and inserting ``a term of
service that is less than 12 months'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``shall include an
amount sufficient to cover 85 percent of such taxes'' and all
that follows through the period at the end and inserting
``may be used to pay such taxes.'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1) by adding ``and'' at the end;
(B) by striking paragraph (2); and
(C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as (2);
(4) in subsection (d)(1), by striking the second sentence;
and
(5) by striking subsections (g) and (h).
Subtitle D--Amendments to Subtitle D (National Service Trust and
Provision of National Service Educational Awards)
SEC. 1401. AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS IN THE NATIONAL SERVICE
TRUST.
Section 145 (42 U.S.C. 12601) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(B), by striking ``section 148(e)'' and
inserting ``section 148(f)''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``pursuant to section
196(a)(2)'' and inserting ``pursuant to section 196(a)(2), if
the terms of such donations direct that they be deposited in
the National Service Trust''; and
(2) in subsection (c), by striking ``for payments of
national service educational awards in accordance with
section 148.'' and inserting ``for--
``(1) payments of summer of service educational awards and
national service educational awards in accordance with
section 148; and
[[Page H1364]]
``(2) payments of interest in accordance with section
148(f).''.
SEC. 1402. INDIVIDUALS ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A NATIONAL SERVICE
EDUCATIONAL AWARD FROM THE TRUST.
Section 146 (42 U.S.C. 12602) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``if
the individual'' and inserting ``if the organization
responsible for an individual's supervision certifies that
the individual'';
(B) by striking paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) and inserting
the following:
``(1) met the applicable eligibility requirements for the
position; and
``(2)(A) successfully completed the required term of
service described in subsection (b) in an approved national
service position; or
``(B)(i) satisfactorily performed prior to being granted a
release for compelling personal circumstances under section
139(c); and
``(ii) served at least 15 percent of the required term of
service described in subsection (b); and''; and
(C) by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (3);
(2) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
``(c) Limitation on Receipt of National Service Educational
Awards.--An individual may not receive, in national service
educational awards, more than an amount equal to the
aggregate value of 2 such awards for full-time service. The
aggregate value of summer of service educational awards that
an individual receives shall have no effect on the aggregate
value of national service educational awards the individual
may receive.'';
(3) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (1) by inserting after ``national service
educational award'' the following: ``or a summer of service
educational award''; and
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), and in
subparagraph (A), by inserting after ``national service
educational award'' the following: ``or a summer of service
educational award'';
(ii) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``or'' at the end;
(iii) in subparagraph (B) by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; or'';
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) in the case of a summer of service educational award,
is enrolled at an eligible institution of higher education
under section 148(c) or an educational institution described
under section 148(a)(4) and failed to expend the full amount
of that award during the original 7-year period.''; and
(4) in subsection (e)(1)--
(A) by inserting after ``qualifying under this section''
the following: ``or under section 111(a)(5)''; and
(B) by inserting after ``to receive a national service
educational award'' the following: ``or a summer of service
educational award''.
SEC. 1403. DETERMINATION OF THE AMOUNT OF NATIONAL SERVICE
EDUCATIONAL AWARDS.
Section 147(a) (42 U.S.C. 12603(a)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``a value, for each of not more than 2 of
such terms of service, equal to 90 percent of--'' and
inserting ``a value of--''; and
(2) by striking paragraphs (1) and (2) and inserting the
following:
``(1) $4,825, for fiscal year 2008;
``(2) $4,925, for fiscal year 2009;
``(3) $5,025, for fiscal year 2010;
``(4) $5,125, for fiscal year 2011; and
``(5) $5,225, for fiscal year 2012 and each fiscal year
thereafter.''.
SEC. 1404. DISBURSEMENT OF EDUCATIONAL AWARDS.
Section 148 (42 U.S.C. 12604) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (2), by striking ``cost of attendance''
and inserting ``cost of attendance or other educational
expenses'';
(B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``and'';
(C) by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (6);
(D) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following:
``(4) to pay expenses incurred in enrolling in an
educational institution or training establishment that meets
the requirements of chapter 36 of title 38, United States
Code (38 U.S.C. 3451 et seq.);
``(5) for a recipient of a summer of service educational
award under section 111(a)(5)(D), to pay expenses incurred in
enrolling in a college preparatory program in accordance with
subsection (e); and''; and
(E) in paragraph (6) (as so redesignated) by striking
``subsection (e)'' and inserting ``subsection (f)'';
(2) in subsection (b)(1) by inserting after ``the national
service educational award of the individual'' the following:
``, or an eligible individual under section 111(a)(5) who
received a summer of service educational award for a project
that began after the individual completed grade 10 and
desires to apply that summer of service educational award,'';
(3) in subsection (b)(2) by inserting after ``the national
service educational award'' the following: ``or the summer of
service educational award, as applicable,'';
(4) in subsection (b)(5) by inserting after ``the national
service educational award'' the following: ``or the summer of
service educational award, as applicable'';
(5) in subsection (b)(7)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``, other than a loan
to a parent of a student pursuant to section 428B of such Act
(20 U.S.C. 1078-2); and'' and inserting a semicolon;
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period and
inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) any loan (other than a loan described in subparagraph
(A) or (B)) determined by an institution of higher education
to be necessary to cover a student's educational expenses and
made, insured, or guaranteed by--
``(i) an eligible lender, as defined in section 435 of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1085);
``(ii) the direct student loan program under part D of
title IV of such Act;
``(iii) a State agency; or
``(iv) a lender otherwise determined by the Corporation to
be eligible to receive disbursements from the National
Service Trust.'';
(6) in subsection (c)(1), by inserting after ``national
service educational award'' the following: ``, or an eligible
individual under section 111(a)(5) who desires to apply the
individual's summer of service educational award,'';
(7) in subsection (c)(2)(A), by inserting after ``national
service educational award'' the following: ``or summer of
service educational award, as applicable,'';
(8) in subsection (c)(2)(C)(iii), by inserting after
``national service educational awards received under this
subtitle'' the following: ``or summer of service educational
awards received under section 111(a)(5)'';
(9) in subsection (c)(3), by inserting after ``national
service educational awards'' the following: ``and summer of
service educational awards'';
(10) in subsection (c)(5)--
(A) by inserting after ``national service educational
award'' the following: ``, or summer of service educational
award, as applicable,''; and
(B) by inserting after ``additional'' the following:
``summer of service educational awards and additional'';
(11) in subsection (c)(6), by inserting after ``national
service educational award'' the following: ``and summer of
service educational award'';
(12) in subsection (d), by inserting after ``national
service educational awards'' the following: ``and summer of
service educational awards'';
(13) by redesignating subsections (e), (f), and (g) as (f),
(g), and (h), respectively;
(14) by inserting after subsection (d) the following:
``(e) Use of Summer of Service Educational Award To Pay
College Preparatory Expenses.--
``(1) Application of eligible individuals.--An eligible
individual under section 111(a)(5), or the parents or legal
guardian of such an individual, who desires to apply the
summer of service educational award of the individual to the
payment of expenses incurred in enrolling in a college
preparatory program shall, on a form prescribed by the
Corporation, submit an application to the college preparatory
program in which the individual will be enrolled that
contains such information as the Corporation may require to
verify the individual's eligibility.
``(2) Submission of requests for payment by program.--A
college preparatory program that receives one or more
applications under paragraph (1) shall submit to the
Corporation a statement, in a manner prescribed by the
Corporation, that--
``(A) identifies each eligible individual filing an
application under paragraph (1) for a disbursement of the
individual's summer of service educational award under this
subsection;
``(B) specifies the amounts for which such eligible
individuals are qualified for disbursement; and
``(C) certifies that--
``(i) the college preparatory program is operated by a for-
profit or non-profit organization with a track record of
success in implementing college preparatory programs that
collaborate with local educational agencies and adequately
prepare secondary school students for admission to an
institution of higher education without need for remediation;
``(ii) the college preparatory program has been in
existence for at least one year prior to an eligible
individual's submission of the application under paragraph
(1); and
``(iii) individuals using summer of service educational
awards received under section 111(a)(5) to pay the cost of
enrolling in the college preparatory program do not comprise
more than 15 percent of the total number of individuals
enrolled in the program; and
``(D) contains such provisions concerning financial
compliance and program quality as the Corporation may
require.
``(3) Disbursement of payments.--Upon receipt of a
statement from a college preparatory program that complies
with paragraph (2), the Corporation shall, subject to
paragraph (4), disburse the total amount of the summer of
service educational awards for which eligible individuals who
have submitted applications to that program under paragraph
(1) are scheduled to receive. Such disbursement shall be made
by check or other means that is payable to the program and
requires the endorsement or other certification by the
eligible individual.
``(4) Multiple disbursements.--The total amount required to
be disbursed to a college preparatory program under paragraph
(3) for any period of enrollment may be disbursed by the
Corporation in two or more installments consistent with
appropriate divisions of such period of enrollment.
``(5) Refund rules.--The Corporation shall, by regulation,
provide for the refund to the Corporation (and the crediting
to the summer of service educational award of an eligible
individual) of amounts disbursed to programs for the benefit
of eligible individuals who withdraw or otherwise fail to
complete the period of enrollment for which the assistance
was provided. Amounts refunded to the Trust pursuant to this
paragraph may be used by the Corporation to fund additional
approved summer of service positions under section 111(a)(5).
[[Page H1365]]
``(6) Maximum award.--The portion of an eligible
individual's total available summer of service educational
award that may be disbursed under this subsection for any
period of enrollment shall not exceed the cost of
attendance.'';
(15) in subsection (f) (as so redesignated), by striking
``subsection (b)(6)'' and inserting ``subsection (b)(7)'';
and
(16) in subsection (g) (as so redesignated), by striking
``Director'' and inserting ``Chief Executive Officer''.
SEC. 1405. PROCESS OF APPROVAL OF NATIONAL SERVICE POSITIONS.
(a) In General.--Subtitle D of title I (42 U.S.C. 12601 et
seq.) is further amended by adding at the end the following
new section:
``SEC. 149. PROCESS OF APPROVAL OF NATIONAL SERVICE
POSITIONS.
``(a) Timing and Recording Requirements.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding subtitles C and D, and
any other provision of law, in approving a position as an
approved national service position, the Corporation--
``(A) shall approve the position at the time the
Corporation--
``(i) enters into an enforceable agreement with an
individual participant to serve in a program carried out
under subtitle E of title I of this Act or under title I of
the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4951 et
seq.), or a summer of service educational award; or
``(ii) except as provided in clause (i), awards a grant to
(or enters into a contract or cooperative agreement with) an
entity to carry out a program for which such a position is
approved under section 123; and
``(B) shall record as an obligation an estimate of the net
present value of the national service educational award
associated with the position, based on a formula that takes
into consideration historical rates of enrollment in such a
program, and of earning and using national service
educational awards for such a program and remain available.
``(2) Formula.--In determining the formula described in
paragraph (1)(B), the Corporation shall consult with the
Director of the Congressional Budget Office.
``(3) Certification report.--The Chief Executive Officer of
the Corporation shall annually prepare and submit to Congress
a report that contains a certification that the Corporation
is in compliance with the requirements of paragraph (1).
``(4) Approval.--The requirements of this subsection shall
apply to each approved national service position that the
Corporation approves--
``(A) during fiscal year 2008; and
``(B) during any subsequent fiscal year.
``(b) Reserve Account.--
``(1) Establishment and contents.--
``(A) Establishment.--Notwithstanding subtitles C and D,
and any other provision of law, within the National Service
Trust established under section 145, the Corporation shall
establish a reserve account.
``(B) Contents.--To ensure the availability of adequate
funds to support the awards of approved national service
positions for each fiscal year, the Corporation shall place
in the account--
``(i) during fiscal year 2008, a portion of the funds that
were appropriated for fiscal year 2008 or a previous fiscal
year under section 501(a)(2), were made available to carry
out subtitle C, D, or E of this title, subtitle A of title I
of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, or summer of
service under section 111(a)(5), and remain available; and
``(ii) during fiscal year 2009 or a subsequent fiscal year,
a portion of the funds that were appropriated for that fiscal
year under section 501(a)(2) and were made available to carry
out subtitle C, D, or E of this title, subtitle A of title I
of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, or summer of
service under section 111(a)(5), and remain available.
``(2) Obligation.--The Corporation shall not obligate the
funds in the reserve account until the Corporation--
``(A) determines that the funds will not be needed for the
payment of national service educational awards associated
with previously approved national service positions and
summer of service educational awards; or
``(B) obligates the funds for the payment of national
service educational awards for such previously approved
national service positions or summer of service educational
awards, as applicable.
``(c) Audits.--The accounts of the Corporation relating to
the appropriated funds for approved national service
positions, and the records demonstrating the manner in which
the Corporation has recorded estimates described in
subsection (a)(1)(B) as obligations, shall be audited
annually by independent certified public accountants or
independent licensed public accountants certified or licensed
by a regulatory authority of a State or other political
subdivision of the United States in accordance with generally
accepted auditing standards. A report containing the results
of each such independent audit shall be included in the
annual report required by subsection (a)(3).
``(d) Availability of Amounts.--Except as provided in
subsection (b), all amounts included in the National Service
Trust under paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of section 145(a)
shall be available for payments of national service
educational awards or summer of service educational awards
under section 148.''.
(b) Conforming Repeal.--Section 2 of the Strengthen
AmeriCorps Program Act (Public Law 108-145; 117 Stat. 844; 42
U.S.C. 12605) is repealed.
Subtitle E--Amendments to Subtitle E (National Civilian Community
Corps)
SEC. 1501. PURPOSE.
Section 151 (42 U.S.C. 12611) is amended to read as
follows:
``SEC. 151. PURPOSE.
``It is the purpose of this subtitle to authorize the
operation of, and support for, residential and other service
programs that combine the best practices of civilian service
with the best aspects of military service, including
leadership and team building, to meet national and community
needs. Such needs to be met under such programs include those
related to--
``(1) natural and other disasters;
``(2) infrastructure improvement;
``(3) environmental stewardship and conservation;
``(4) energy conservation; and
``(5) urban and rural development.''.
SEC. 1502. PROGRAM COMPONENTS.
Section 152 (42 U.S.C. 12612) is amended--
(1) by amending the section heading to read as follows:
``SEC. 152. ESTABLISHMENT OF NATIONAL CIVILIAN COMMUNITY
CORPS PROGRAM.''.
(2) in subsection (a), by striking ``Civilian Community
Corps Demonstration Program'' and inserting ``National
Civilian Community Corps Program'';
(3) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``Civilian Community Corps Demonstration
Program'' and inserting ``National Civilian Community Corps
Program''; and
(B) by striking ``a Civilian Community Corps'' and
inserting ``a National Civilian Community Corps'';
(4) in the heading of subsection (c), by striking
``Programs'' and inserting ``Components''; and
(5) in subsection (c), by striking ``program components are
residential programs'' and all that follows and inserting
``programs referred to in subsection (b) may include a
residential component.''.
SEC. 1503. ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS.
Section 153 (42 U.S.C. 12613) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``Civilian Community Corps Demonstration
Program'' and inserting ``National Civilian Community Corps
Program''; and
(B) by striking ``on Civilian Community Corps'' and
inserting ``on National Civilian Community Corps'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``if the person'' and
all that follows through the period at the end and inserting
``if the person will be at least 18 years of age on or before
December 31 in the calendar year in which the individual
enrolls in the program.'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) by striking ``Backrounds'' and inserting
``Backgrounds''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following: ``The Director
shall ensure that at least 50 percent of the participants in
the program are disadvantaged youth by year 2010. The
Director shall report to the Committee on Education and Labor
in the United States House of Representatives and the
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions in the
United States Senate annually on progress towards this
goal.''; and
(4) by striking subsection (e).
SEC. 1504. SUMMER NATIONAL SERVICE PROGRAM.
Section 154 (42 U.S.C. 12614) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``Civilian Community Corps Demonstration
Program'' and inserting ``National Civilian Community Corps
Demonstration Program''; and
(B) by striking ``on Civilian Community Corps'' and
inserting ``on National Civilian Community Corps'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``shall be'' and all
that follows through the period at the end and inserting
``shall be from economically and ethnically diverse
backgrounds, including youth who are in foster care.''.
SEC. 1505. TEAM LEADERS.
Section 155 (42 U.S.C. 12615) is amended--
(1) by amending the section heading to read as follows:
``SEC. 155. NATIONAL CIVILIAN COMMUNITY CORPS.'';
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``Civilian Community Corps Demonstration
Program'' and inserting ``National Civilian Community Corps
Demonstration Program''; and
(B) by striking ``the Civilian Community Corps shall'' and
inserting ``the National Civilian Community Corps shall'';
(3) in subsection (b)--
(A) by amending the subsection heading to read as follows:
``(b) Membership in National Civilian Community Corps.--'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``National'' before
``Civilian Community Corps'';
(C) in paragraph (3)--
(i) by striking ``superintendent'' and inserting ``campus
director''; and
(ii) by striking ``camp'' and inserting ``campus''; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Team leaders.--The Director may select from Corps
members individuals with prior supervisory or service
experience to be team leaders within units in the National
Civilian Community Corps to perform service that includes
leading and supervising teams of Corps members. Team leaders
shall--
``(A) be selected without regard to the age limitation
under section 153(b);
``(B) be members of the National Civilian Community Corps;
and
``(C) be provided the rights and benefits applicable to
Corps members, except that the limitation on the amount of
living allowance shall not exceed 10 percent more than the
amount established under section 158(b).'';
(4) in subsection (d)--
(A) by amending the subsection heading to read as follows:
[[Page H1366]]
``(d) Campuses.--'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by amending the paragraph heading to read as follows:
``(1) Units to be assigned to campuses.--'';
(ii) by striking ``in camps'' and inserting ``in
campuses'';
(iii) by striking ``camp'' and inserting ``campus''; and
(iv) by striking ``in the camps'' and inserting ``in the
campuses'';
(C) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Campus director.--There shall be a campus director
for each campus. The campus director is the head of the
campus.'';
(D) in paragraph (3)--
(i) by amending the paragraph heading to read as follows:
``(3) Eligible site for campus.--'';
(ii) by striking ``A camp may be located'' and inserting
``A campus must be cost-effective and may, upon the
completion of a feasibility study, be located'';
(5) in subsection (e)--
(A) by amending the paragraph heading to read as follows:
``(e) Distribution of Units and Campuses.--'';
(B) by striking ``camps are distributed'' and inserting
``campuses are cost-effective and are distributed''; and
(C) by striking ``rural areas'' and all that follows
through the period at the end and inserting ``rural areas
such that each Corps unit in a region can be easily deployed
for disaster and emergency response to such region.''; and
(6) in subsection (f)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking by striking ``superintendent'' and
inserting ``campus director''; and
(ii) by striking ``camp'' both places such term appears and
inserting ``campus'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``superintendent of a camp'' and inserting ``campus director
of a campus'';
(ii) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by striking ``superintendent'' and inserting ``campus
director'';
(II) by striking ``superintendent's'' and inserting
``campus director's''; and
(III) by striking ``camp'' each place such term appears and
inserting ``campus''; and
(iii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``superintendent''
and inserting ``campus director''; and
(C) in paragraph (3), by striking ``camp superintendent''
and inserting ``campus director''.
SEC. 1506. TRAINING.
Section 156 (42 U.S.C. 12616) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by inserting ``National'' before ``Civilian Community
Corps''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following: ``The Director
shall ensure that to the extent practicable, each member of
the Corps is trained in CPR, first aid, and other skills
related to disaster preparedness and response.'';
(2) in subsection (b)(1), by inserting before the period at
the end the following: ``, including a focus on energy
conservation, environmental stewardship or conservation,
infrastructure improvement, urban and rural development, or
disaster preparedness needs''; and
(3) in subsection (c)(2), by adding at the end the
following: ``The Corporation may provide such training
through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements with
organizations who have established expertise in working with
disadvantaged youth in similar programs.''.
SEC. 1507. CONSULTATION WITH STATE COMMISSIONS.
Section 157 (42 U.S.C. 12617) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting
``National'' before ``Civilian Community Corps'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting before the semicolon the
following: ``with specific emphasis on projects in support of
infrastructure improvement, disaster relief and recovery, the
environment, energy conservation and urban and rural
development''; and
(C) in paragraph (2) by striking ``service learning'' and
inserting ``service-learning'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``and the Secretary of
Housing and Urban Development'' and inserting ``the Secretary
of Housing and Urban Development, the Administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency, the Administrator of the
Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Secretary of Energy,
the Secretary of Transportation, and the Chief of the United
States Forest Service'';
(B) in paragraph (1)(B)--
(i) by inserting ``community-based organizations and''
before ``representatives of local communities''; and
(ii) by striking ``camp'' both places such term appears and
inserting ``campus'';
(C) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``State Commissions,''
before ``and persons involved in other youth service
programs.''; and
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``superintendent'' both places such term
appears and inserting ``campus director''; and
(ii) by striking ``camp'' both places such term appears and
inserting ``campus'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``camp superintendents''
and inserting ``campus directors''.
SEC. 1508. AUTHORIZED BENEFITS FOR CORPS MEMBERS.
Section 158 (42 U.S.C. 12618) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a) by inserting ``National'' before
``Civilian Community Corps''; and
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
(i) by inserting ``National'' before ``Civilian Community
Corps''; and
(ii) by inserting before the colon the following: ``, as
the Director determines appropriate'';
(B) in paragraph (6), by striking ``Clothing'' and
inserting ``Uniforms'';
(C) in paragraph (7), by striking ``Recreational services
and supplies'' and inserting ``Supplies''.
SEC. 1509. PERMANENT CADRE.
Section 159 (42 U.S.C. 12619) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``Civilian Community Corps Demonstration Program'' and
inserting ``National Civilian Community Corps Program''; and
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by inserting ``including those'' before
``recommended''; and
(ii) by inserting ``National'' before ``Civilian Community
Corps'';
(2) in subsection (b)(1), by inserting ``National'' before
``Civilian Community Corps'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(B)(i), by inserting ``National''
before ``Civilian Community Corps''; and
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by striking ``The Director shall establish a permanent
cadre of'' and inserting ``The Chief Executive Officer shall
establish a permanent cadre that includes the Director and
other appointed''; and
(II) by inserting ``National'' before ``Civilian Community
Corps'';
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``The Director shall
appoint the members'' and inserting ``The Chief Executive
Officer shall consider the recommendations of the Director in
appointing the other members'';
(iii) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``the Director'' and
inserting ``the Chief Executive Officer''; and
(iv) in subparagraph (E)--
(I) by inserting after ``techniques'' the following: ``,
including techniques for working with and enhancing the
development of disadvantaged youth,''; and
(II) by striking ``service learning'' and inserting
``service-learning''; and
(C) in the first sentence of paragraph (3), by striking
``the members'' and inserting ``other members''.
SEC. 1510. CONTRACT AND GRANT AUTHORITY.
Section 161 (42 U.S.C. 12621) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``perform any program
function under this subtitle'' and inserting ``carry out the
National Civilian Community Corps program''; and
(2) in subsection (b)(2), by inserting ``National'' before
``Civilian Community Corps''.
SEC. 1511. OTHER DEPARTMENTS.
Section 162 (42 U.S.C. 12622) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``National'' before
``Civilian Community Corps'';
(ii) in subparagraph (B)(i), by striking ``the registry
established by'' and all that follows through the semicolon
and inserting ``the registry established by section 1143a of
title 10, United States Code;'';
(B) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ``to be recommended
for appointment'' and inserting ``from which individuals may
be selected for appointment by the Director''; and
(C) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``National'' before
``Civilian Community Corps''; and
(2) by striking subsection (b).
SEC. 1512. ADVISORY BOARD.
Section 163 (42 U.S.C. 12623) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``Upon the establishment of the Program,
there shall also be'' and inserting ``There shall be'';
(B) by inserting ``National'' before ``Civilian Community
Corps Advisory Board''; and
(C) by striking ``to assist'' and all that follows through
the period at the end and inserting ``to assist the Corps in
responding rapidly and efficiently in times of natural and
other disasters. Consistent with the needs outlined in
section 151, the Advisory Board members shall help coordinate
activities with the Corps as appropriate, including the
mobilization of volunteers and coordination of volunteer
centers to help local communities recover from the effects of
natural and other disasters.'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (8) and (9) as paragraphs
(13) and (14), respectively;
(B) by inserting after paragraph (7) the following:
``(8) The Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency.
``(9) The Secretary of Transportation.
``(10) The Chief of the United States Forest Service.
``(11) The Administrator of the Environmental Protection
Agency.
``(12) The Secretary of Energy.''; and
(C) in paragraph (13), as so redesignated, by striking
``industry,'' and inserting ``public and private
organizations,''.
SEC. 1513. ANNUAL EVALUATION.
Section 164 (42 U.S.C. 12624) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``National'' before ``Civilian Community
Corps''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following: ``Upon completing
each such evaluation, the Corporation shall submit to the
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the
Senate and the Committee on Education and Labor of the House
of Representatives a report on the evaluation.''.
SEC. 1514. REPEAL OF FUNDING LIMITATION.
Section 165 (42 U.S.C. 12625) is repealed.
SEC. 1515. DEFINITIONS.
Section 166 (42 U.S.C. 12626) is amended--
[[Page H1367]]
(1) by striking paragraphs (2), (3), and (9);
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (4) through (8) as
paragraphs (5) through (9), respectively;
(3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) Campus director.--The term `campus director', with
respect to a Corps campus, means the head of the campus under
section 155(d).
``(3) Corps.--The term `Corps' means the National Civilian
Community Corps required under section 155 as part of the
Civilian Community Corps Program.
``(4) Corps campus.--The term `Corps campus' means the
facility or central location established as the operational
headquarters and boarding place for particular Corps
units.'';
(4) in paragraph (5) (as so redesignated), by striking
``Civilian Community Corps Demonstration Program'' and
inserting ``National Civilian Community Corps Program'';
(5) in paragraph (6) (as so redesignated), by inserting
``National'' before ``Civilian Community Corps'';
(6) in paragraph (8) (as so redesignated), by striking
``The terms'' and all that follows through ``Demonstration
Program'' and inserting ``The term `Program' means the
National Civilian Community Corps Program''; and
(7) in paragraph (9) (as so redesignated)--
(A) in the heading by striking ``Service learning'' and
inserting ``Service-learning''; and
(B) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by striking
``service learning'' and inserting ``service-learning''.
SEC. 1516. TERMINOLOGY.
Subtitle E of title I (42 U.S.C. 12611 et seq.) is
amended--
(1) by striking the subtitle heading and inserting the
following:
``Subtitle E--National Civilian Community Corps''; and
(2) in section 160(a) (42 U.S.C. 12620(a)) by inserting
``National'' before ``Civilian Community Corps''.
Subtitle F--Amendments to Subtitle F (Administrative Provisions)
SEC. 1601. FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE.
Section 171(a)(1) (42 U.S.C. 12631(a)(1)) is amended by
striking ``with respect to a project'' and inserting ``with
respect to a project authorized under the national service
laws''.
SEC. 1602. ADDITIONAL PROHIBITIONS ON USE OF FUNDS.
Section 174 (42 U.S.C. 12634) is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``(d) Referrals for Federal Assistance.--A program may not
receive assistance under the national service laws for the
sole purpose of referring individuals to Federal assistance
programs or State assistance programs funded in part by the
Federal government.''.
SEC. 1603. NOTICE, HEARING, AND GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES.
Section 176 (42 U.S.C. 12636) is amended--
(1) by striking ``this title'' each place it appears and
inserting ``the national service laws'';
(2) in subsection (a)(2)(A), by striking ``30 days'' and
inserting ``1 or more periods of 30 days not to exceed 90
days in total''; and
(3) in subsection (f)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``A State or local
applicant'' and inserting ``An entity''; and
(B) in paragraph (6)--
(i) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``and'';
(ii) by redesignating subparagraph (D) as subparagraph (E);
and
(iii) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the following:
``(D) in a grievance filed by an individual applicant or
participant--
``(i) the applicant's selection or the participant's
reinstatement, as the case may be; and
``(ii) other changes in the terms and conditions of
service; and''.
SEC. 1604. RESOLUTION OF DISPLACEMENT COMPLAINTS.
Section 177 (42 U.S.C. 12637) is amended--
(1) in subsections (a) and (b), by striking ``under this
title'' each place it appears and inserting ``under the
national service laws'';
(2) in subsection (b)(1), by striking ``employee or
position'' and inserting ``employee, position, or volunteer
(other than a participant under the national service laws)'';
and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(f) Parental Involvement.--
``(1) In general.--Programs that receive assistance under
the national service laws shall consult with the parents or
legal guardians of children in developing and operating
programs that include and serve children.
``(2) Parental permission.--Programs that receive
assistance under the national service laws shall, consistent
with State law, before transporting minor children, provide
the reason for and obtain written permission of the
children's parents.''.
SEC. 1605. STATE COMMISSIONS ON NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY
SERVICE.
Section 178 (42 U.S.C. 12638) is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)(1), by adding at the end the
following:
``(J) A representative of the volunteer sector.'';
(2) in subsection (c)(3), by striking ``, unless the State
permits the representative to serve as a voting member of the
State Commission or alternative administrative entity'';
(3) by striking subsection (e)(1) and inserting the
following:
``(1) Preparation of a national service plan for the State
that--
``(A) is developed through an open and public process (such
as through regional forums, hearings, and other means) that
provides for maximum participation and input from companies,
organizations, and public agencies using service and
volunteerism as a strategy to meet critical community needs,
including programs funded under the national service laws;
``(B) covers a 3-year period, the beginning of which may be
set by the State;
``(C) is subject to approval by the chief executive officer
of the State;
``(D) includes measurable goals and outcomes for the State
consistent with those for national service programs as
described in section 179(a)(1)(A);
``(E) ensures outreach to diverse community-based agencies
that serve underrepresented populations, by--
``(i) using established networks and registries at the
State level, or establishing such networks and registries;
and
``(ii) coordinating with the Corporation's Office of
Outreach and Recruitment;
``(F) provides for effective coordination of funding
applications submitted by the State and others within the
State under the national service laws;
``(G) is updated annually, reflecting changes in practices
and policies that will improve the coordination and
effectiveness of Federal, State, and local resources for
service and volunteerism within the State; and
``(H) contains such information as the State Commission
considers to be appropriate or as the Corporation may
require.'';
(4) by redesignating subsections (f) through (j) as
subsections (g) through (k), respectively;
(5) by inserting after subsection (e) the following:
``(f) Relief From Administrative Requirements.--Upon
approval of a State plan submitted under subsection (e)(1),
the Chief Executive Officer may waive, or specify
alternatives to, administrative requirements (other than
statutory provisions) otherwise applicable to grants made to
States under the national service laws, including those
requirements identified by a State as impeding the
coordination and effectiveness of Federal, State, and local
resources for service and volunteerism within a State.'';
(6) in subsection (j)(1) (as redesignated by this section),
by striking the period at the end and inserting ``,
consistent with section 174(d).''; and
(7) by adding at the end the following:
``(l) State Plan for Baby Boomer and Older Adult Volunteer
and Paid Service.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
this section, to be eligible to receive a grant or allotment
under subtitle B or C or to receive a distribution of
approved national service positions under subtitle C, a State
must work with appropriate State agencies and private
entities to develop a comprehensive State plan for volunteer
and paid service by members of the Baby Boom generation and
older adults.
``(2) Matters included.--The State plan shall include--
``(A) recommendations for public policy initiatives,
including how to best tap the population of members the Baby
Boom generation and older adults as sources of social capital
and as ways to address community needs;
``(B) recommendations to the State unit on aging on--
``(i) a marketing outreach plan to businesses;
``(ii) outreach to non-profit-organizations;
``(iii) the State's Department of Education; and
``(iv) other State agencies; and
``(C) recommendations for civic engagement and
multigenerational activities, such as--
``(i) early childhood education, family literacy, and after
school programs;
``(ii) respite services for older adults and caregivers;
and
``(iii) transitions for members of the Baby Boom generation
and older adults to purposeful work in their post career
lives.
``(3) Knowledge incorporated.--The State plan shall
incorporate the current knowledge base regarding--
``(A) the economic impact of older workers' roles in the
economy;
``(B) the social impact of older workers' roles in the
community; and
``(C) the health and social benefits of active engagement
for members of the Baby Boom generation and older adults.
``(4) Publication.--The State plan must be made public and
be transmitted to the Chief Executive Officer.''.
SEC. 1606. EVALUATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY.
Section 179 (42 U.S.C. 12639) is amended--
(1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) In General.--The Corporation shall provide, directly
or through grants or contracts, for the continuing evaluation
of programs that receive assistance under the national
service laws, including evaluations that measure the impact
of such programs, to determine--
``(1) the effectiveness of various programs receiving
assistance under the national service laws in achieving
stated goals and the costs associated with such, including--
``(A) an evaluation of performance measures, as established
by the Corporation in consultation with grantees receiving
assistance under the national service laws, which may
include--
``(i) number of participants enrolled and completing terms
of service compared to the stated goals of the program;
``(ii) number of volunteers recruited from the community in
which the program was implemented;
``(iii) if applicable based on the program design, the
number of individuals receiving or benefitting from the
service conducted;
``(iv) number of disadvantaged and underrepresented youth
participants;
``(v) sustainability of project or program, including
measures to ascertain the level of community support for the
project or program;
``(vi) measures to ascertain the change in attitude toward
civic engagement among the participants and the beneficiaries
of the service; and
``(vii) other quantitative and qualitative measures as
determined to be appropriate by the recipient of assistance;
and
[[Page H1368]]
``(B) review of the implementation plan for reaching such
measures described in subparagraph (A); and
``(2) the effectiveness of the structure and mechanisms for
delivery of services, such as the effective utilization of
the participants' time, the management of the participants,
and the ease to which recipients were able to receive
services to maximize the cost-effectiveness of the program
and its impact, for such programs.'';
(2) in subsection (g)--
(A) in paragraph (3), by striking ``National Senior
Volunteer Corps'' and inserting ``National Senior Service
Corps''; and
(B) in paragraph (9), by striking ``to public service'' and
all that follows through the period at the end and inserting
``to engage in service that benefits the community.''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(j) Reserved Program Funds for Accountability.--In
addition to amounts appropriated to carry out this section,
the Corporation may reserve up to 1 percent of total program
funds appropriated for a fiscal year under the national
service laws to support program accountability activities.
``(k) Corrective Plans.--
``(1) In general.--A grantee that fails to reach the
performance measures in subsection (a)(1)(A) as determined by
the Corporation, shall reach an agreement with the
Corporation on a corrective action plan to achieve the agreed
upon performance measures.
``(2) Assistance.--
``(A) New program.--For a program that has received
assistance for less than 3 years and is failing to achieve
the performance measures agreed upon under subsection
(a)(1)(A), the Corporation shall--
``(i) provide technical assistance to the grantee to
address targeted performance problems relating to the
performance measures in subsection (a)(1)(A); and
``(ii) require quarterly reports from the grantee on the
program's progress toward achieving the performance measures
in subsection (a)(1)(A) to the appropriate State, Territory,
or Indian tribe and the Corporation.
``(B) Established programs.--For a program that has
received assistance for 3 years or more and is failing to
achieve the performance measures agreed upon under subsection
(a)(1)(A), the Corporation shall require quarterly reports
from the grantee on the program's progress towards achieving
performance measures in subsection (a)(1)(A) to the
appropriate State, Territory, or Indian tribe and the
Corporation.
``(l) Failure To Meet Performance Levels.--If, after a
period for correction as approved by the Corporation, a
grantee or subgrantee fails to achieve the established levels
of performance, the Corporation shall--
``(1) reduce the annual amount of the grant award
attributable to the underperforming grantee or subgrantee by
at least 25 percent; or
``(2) terminate assistance to the underperforming grantee
or subgrantee, consistent with section 176(a).
``(m) Reports.--The Corporation shall submit to Congress
not later than two years after the date of the enactment of
this subsection, and annually thereafter, a report containing
information on the number of--
``(1) grantees implementing corrective action plans;
``(2) grantees for which the Corporation offers technical
assistance under subsection (k);
``(3) grantees for which the Corporation terminates
assistance for a program under subsection (l); and
``(4) grantees meeting or exceeding their performance
measures in subsection (a).''.
SEC. 1607. TECHNICAL AMENDMENT.
Section 181 (42 U.S.C. 12641) is amended by striking
``Section 414'' and inserting ``Section 422''.
SEC. 1608. PARTNERSHIPS WITH SCHOOLS.
Section 182(b) (42 U.S.C. 12642(b)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(b) Annual Report.--On an annual basis, the head of each
Federal agency and department shall prepare and submit, to
Congress and the committees of jurisdiction, a report
concerning the implementation of this section, including an
evaluation of the performance goals and benchmarks of the
partnership programs.''.
SEC. 1609. RIGHTS OF ACCESS, EXAMINATION, AND COPYING.
Section 183 (42 U.S.C. 12643) is amended--
(1) in each of subsections (a)(1) and (b)(1) by inserting
after ``local government,'' the following: ``Territory,'';
and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Inspector General.--The Inspector General of the
Corporation shall have access to, and the right to examine
and copy, any books, documents, papers, records, and other
recorded information in any form--
``(1) within the possession or control of the Corporation
or any State or local government, Territory, Indian tribe, or
public or private nonprofit organization receiving assistance
directly or indirectly under this Act; and
``(2) that relates to the duties of the Inspector General
under the Inspector General Act of 1978.''.
SEC. 1610. ADDITIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS.
Subtitle F of title I (42 U.S.C. 12631 et seq.) is amended
by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 185. CONSOLIDATED APPLICATION AND REPORTING
REQUIREMENTS.
``(a) In General.--To promote efficiency and eliminate
duplicative requirements, the Corporation shall consolidate
or modify application procedures and reporting requirements
for programs and activities funded under the national service
laws.
``(b) Reports to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the
date of the enactment of this section, and annually
thereafter, the Corporation shall submit to Congress a report
containing information on the actions taken to modify the
application procedures and reporting requirements for
programs and activities funded under the national service
laws, including a description of the consultation procedures
with grantees, entities that expressed interest in applying
for assistance under a national service law but did not
apply, those entities whose application was rejected, and
applications whose assistance was terminated due to failure
to meet performance measures for the year covered by the
report.
``SEC. 186. SUSTAINABILITY.
``(a) Goals.--To ensure that recipients of assistance under
the national service laws are carrying out sustainable
projects or programs, the Corporation, after collaboration
with State Commissions and consultation with recipients of
assistance under the national service laws, may set
sustainability goals supported by policies and procedures
to--
``(1) build the capacity of the projects that receive
assistance under the national service laws to meet community
needs and to work to lessen the dependence on Federal dollars
to do so;
``(2) provide technical assistance to assist the recipients
of assistance under the national service laws in acquiring
non-Federal funds for the projects that could replace
assistance received under the national service laws; and
``(3) implement measures to ascertain whether the projects
are generating sufficient community support.
``(b) Enforcement.--If a recipient does not meet the
sustainability goals in subsection (a) for a project, the
Corporation may take action as described in sections 176 and
179.
``SEC. 187. USE OF RECOVERED FUNDS.
``(a) Factors Considered in Approving Repayment.--After the
date of enactment of this section, whenever the Corporation
recovers funds paid to a recipient under a grant or
cooperative agreement made under the national service laws
because the recipient made an expenditure of funds that was
not allowable, or otherwise failed to discharge its
responsibility to account properly for funds, the Corporation
may consider those funds to be additional funds available and
may arrange to repay to the recipient affected by that action
an amount not to exceed 75 percent of the recovered funds if
the Corporation determines that--
``(1) the practices or procedures of the recipient that
resulted in the recovery of funds have been corrected, and
that the recipient is in all other respects in compliance
with the requirements of the grant or cooperative agreement,
if the recipient was notified of any noncompliance with such
requirements and given a reasonable period of time to remedy
such noncompliance;
``(2) the recipient has submitted to the Corporation a plan
for the use of those funds consistent with the national
service laws and, to the extent possible, for the benefit of
the community affected by the recovery of funds; and
``(3) the use of those funds in accordance with that plan
would serve to achieve the objectives of the grant or
cooperative agreement under which the funds were originally
paid.
``(b) Terms and Conditions of Repayment.--Any payments by
the Corporation under this section shall be subject to other
terms and conditions as the Corporation considers necessary
to accomplish the purposes of the grant or cooperative
agreement, including--
``(1) the submission of periodic reports on the use of
funds provided under this section; and
``(2) consultation by the recipient with members of the
community that will benefit from the payments.
``(c) Availability of Funds.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, the funds made available under this section
shall remain available for expenditure for a period of time
considered reasonable by the Corporation, but in no case to
exceed more than 3 fiscal years following the later of--
``(1) the fiscal year in which final agency action
regarding the disallowance of funds is taken; or
``(2) if such recipient files a petition for judicial
review regarding the disallowance of funds, the fiscal year
in which final judicial action is taken on such a petition.
``(d) Publication in Federal Register.--At least 60 days
prior to entering into an arrangement under this section, the
Corporation shall publish in the Federal Register a notice of
intent to enter into such an arrangement and the terms and
conditions under which payments will be made. Interested
persons shall have an opportunity for at least 30 days to
submit comments to the Corporation regarding the proposed
arrangement.
``SEC. 188. EXPENSES OF ATTENDING MEETINGS.
``Notwithstanding section 1345 of title 31, United States
Code, funds authorized under the national service laws shall
be available for expenses of attendance of meetings that are
concerned with the functions or activities for which the
funds are appropriated or which will contribute to improved
conduct, supervision, or management of those functions or
activities.
``SEC. 189. GRANT PERIODS.
``Unless otherwise specifically provided, the Corporation
has authority to make a grant under the national service laws
for a period of 3 years.
``SEC. 189A. GENERATION OF VOLUNTEERS.
``In making decisions on applications for assistance or
approved national service positions under the national
service laws, the Corporation shall take into consideration
the extent to which the applicant's proposal will increase
the involvement of volunteers in meeting community needs.
``SEC. 189B. LIMITATION ON PROGRAM GRANT COSTS.
``(a) Limitation on Grant Amounts.--Except as otherwise
provided by this section, the amount of funds approved by the
Corporation in
[[Page H1369]]
a grant to operate a program authorized under the national
service laws supporting individuals serving in approved
national service positions may not exceed $16,000 per full-
time equivalent position.
``(b) Costs Subject to Limitation.--The limitation in
subsection (a) applies to the Corporation's share of member
support costs, staff costs, and other costs borne by the
grantee or subgrantee to operate a program.
``(c) Costs Not Subject to Limitation.--The limitation in
subsection (a) and (e)(1) shall not apply to expenses that
are not included in the program operating grant award.
``(d) Adjustments for Inflation.--The amount specified in
subsections (a) and (e)(1) shall be adjusted each year after
2008 for inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index
for All Urban Consumers published by the Secretary of Labor.
``(e) Waiver Authority and Reporting Requirement.--
``(1) Waiver.--The Chief Executive Officer may waive the
requirements of this section, up to a maximum of $18,000, if
necessary to meet the compelling needs of a particular
program, such as exceptional training needs for a program
serving disadvantaged youth, increased costs relating to the
participation of individuals with disabilities, and start-up
costs associated with a first-time grantee.
``(2) Reports.--The Chief Executive Officer shall report to
Congress annually on all waivers granted under this section,
with an explanation of the compelling needs justifying such
waivers.
``SEC. 189C. AUDITS AND REPORTS.
``The Corporation shall comply with applicable audit and
reporting requirements as provided in the Chief Financial
Officers Act of 1990 (31 U.S.C. 501 et seq.) and the
Government Corporation Control Act of 1945 (31 U.S.C. 9101 et
seq.). The Corporation shall report to the Congress any
failure to comply with the requirements of such audits.''.
Subtitle G--Amendments to Subtitle G (Corporation for National and
Community Service)
SEC. 1701. TERMS OF OFFICE.
Section 192 (42 U.S.C. 12651a) is amended--
(1) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
``(c) Terms.--Subject to subsection (e), each appointed
member shall serve for a term of 5 years.'';
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(e) Service Until Appointment of Successor.--A voting
member of the Board whose term has expired may continue to
serve for one year beyond expiration of the term if no
successor is appointed or until the date on which a successor
has taken office.''.
SEC. 1702. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AUTHORITIES AND DUTIES.
Section 192A(g) (42 U.S.C. 12651b(g)) is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking
``shall--'' and inserting ``shall have responsibility for
setting overall policy for the Corporation and shall--'';
(2) in paragraph (1), by inserting before the semicolon at
the end the following: ``, and review the budget proposal in
advance of submission to the Office of Management and Budget
and to Congress'';
(3) in paragraph (5)--
(A) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``and'' at the end;
(B) in subparagraph (B) by inserting ``and'' at the end;
and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) review the performance of the Chief Executive Officer
annually and forward a report on that review to the
President;'';
(4) in paragraph (9), by inserting ``and'' after
``Corporation;'';
(5) in paragraph (10), by striking ``program; and'' and
inserting ``program under a cost share agreement, as
determined by the Corporation, in which the funds advanced or
received as reimbursement shall be credited directly to a
current appropriation; and''; and
(6) in paragraph (11), by striking ``September 30, 1995''
and inserting ``January 1, 2011''.
SEC. 1703. AUTHORITIES AND DUTIES OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER.
Section 193A (42 U.S.C. 12651d) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by inserting after ``a strategic
plan'' the following: ``, including a plan for achieving 50
percent full-time approved national service positions by
2010,'';
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (7) through (11) as
paragraphs (8) through (12), respectively;
(C) by inserting after paragraph (6) the following:
``(7) prepare and submit to the Committee on Education and
Labor in the United States House of Representatives and the
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions in the
United States Senate, and the Board an annual report on
actions taken to achieve the goal of 50 percent full-time
approved national service positions as described in paragraph
(1), including an assessment of the progress made toward
achieving that goal and the actions to be taken in the coming
year toward achieving that goal;''; and
(D) in paragraph (11) (as so redesignated)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``June 30, 1995,'' and inserting ``June 30 of each even-
numbered year,''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (A)(i), by striking ``section
122(c)(1)'' and inserting ``section 122(d)(1)''; and
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (9), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(B) by redesignating paragraph (10) as paragraph (11); and
(C) by inserting after paragraph (9) the following:
``(10) obtain the opinions of peer reviewers in evaluating
applications to the Corporation for assistance under this
title; and''.
SEC. 1704. NONVOTING MEMBERS; PERSONAL SERVICES CONTRACTS.
Section 195 (42 U.S.C. 12651f) is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (2)(B), by inserting after ``subdivision
of a State,'' the following: ``Territory,''; and
(B) in paragraph (3)--
(i) in the heading, by striking ``Member'' and inserting
``Non-voting member''; and
(ii) by inserting ``non-voting'' before ``member''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(g) Personal Services Contracts.--The Corporation may
enter into personal services contracts to carry out research,
evaluation, and public awareness related to the national
service laws.''.
SEC. 1705. DONATED SERVICES.
Section 196(a) (42 U.S.C. 12651g(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the
following:
``(A) Organizations and individuals.--Notwithstanding
section 1342 of title 31, United States Code, the Corporation
may solicit and accept the services of organizations and
individuals (other than participants) to assist the
Corporation in carrying out the duties of the Corporation
under the national service laws, and may provide to such
individuals the travel expenses described in section
192A(d).'';
(B) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking ``Such
a volunteer'' and inserting ``A person who is a member of an
organization or is an individual covered by subparagraph
(A)'';
(ii) in clause (i), by striking ``a volunteer'' and
inserting ``such a person'';
(iii) in clause (ii), by striking ``volunteers'' and
inserting ``such a person''; and
(iv) in clause (iii), by striking ``such a volunteer'' and
inserting ``such a person''; and
(C) in subparagraph (C)(i), by striking ``Such a
volunteer'' and inserting ``Such a person''; and
(2) by striking paragraph (3).
SEC. 1706. OFFICE OF OUTREACH AND RECRUITMENT.
Subtitle G of title I is further amended by adding at the
end the following:
``SEC. 196B. OFFICE OF OUTREACH AND RECRUITMENT.
``(a) Establishment.--There is established in the
Corporation an office to be known as the Office of Outreach
and Recruitment (in this section referred to as the
`Office'), headed by a Director.
``(b) Duties.--The duties of the Office, carried out
directly or through grants, contracts, or cooperative
agreements, shall be--
``(1) to increase the public awareness of the wide range of
service opportunities for citizens of all ages, regardless of
socioeconomic status or geographic location, through a
variety of methods, including--
``(A) print media;
``(B) the Internet and related emerging technologies;
``(C) television;
``(D) radio;
``(E) presentations at public or private forums;
``(F) other innovative methods of communication; and
``(G) outreach to offices of economic development, State
employment security agencies, labor unions and trade
associations, local education agencies, agencies and
organizations serving veterans and people with disabilities,
and other institutions or organizations from which
participants for programs receiving assistance from the
national service laws can be recruited;
``(2) to identify and implement methods of recruitment to
increase the diversity of participants in the programs
receiving assistance under the national service laws;
``(3) to identify and implement recruitment strategies and
training programs for bilingual volunteers in the National
Senior Service Corps under title II of the Domestic Volunteer
Service Act of 1973;
``(4) to identify and implement methods of recruitment to
increase the diversity of service sponsors of programs
desiring to receive assistance under the national service
laws;
``(5) to collaborate with organizations which have
established volunteer recruitment programs, including those
on the Internet, to increase the recruitment capacity of the
Corporation;
``(6) where practicable, to provide application materials
in languages other than English for those with limited
English proficiency who wish to participate in a national
service program;
``(7) to coordinate with organizations of former
participants of national service programs for service
opportunities that may include capacity building, outreach,
and recruitment for programs receiving assistance under the
national service laws;
``(8) to collaborate with the training and technical
assistance programs described in subtitle J and in
appropriate paragraphs of section 198E(b);
``(9) to coordinate the clearinghouses described in section
198E; and
``(10) to coordinate with entities receiving funds under
section 198E(b)(11) in establishing the Reserve Corps for
alumni of the national service programs to serve in
emergencies, disasters, and other times of national need.
``(c) Collaboration.--The duties described in subsection
(b) shall be carried out in collaboration with the State
Commissions.
``(d) Authority To Contract With a Business.--The
Corporation may, through contracts
[[Page H1370]]
or cooperative agreements, carry out the marketing duties
described in subsection (b)(1), with priority given to those
entities who have established expertise in the recruitment of
disadvantaged youth, members of Indian tribes, and members of
the Baby Boom generation.
``(e) Campaign To Solicit Funds.--The Corporation, through
the Director of the Office, may conduct a campaign to solicit
funds for itself to conduct outreach and recruitment
campaigns to recruit a diverse population of service sponsors
of and participants in programs and projects receiving
assistance under the national service laws.
``(f) Reporting.--The Director of the Office shall complete
a report annually to the Chief Executive Officer and the
Board of Directors on its activities and results.''.
SEC. 1707. STUDY TO EXAMINE AND INCREASE SERVICE PROGRAMS FOR
VETERANS AND VETERANS PARTICIPATION IN SERVICE
CORPS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE AND TO DEVELOP
PILOT PROGRAM.
(a) Planning Study.--The Corporation for National and
Community Service shall conduct a study to identify--
(1) specific areas of need for veterans;
(2) how existing programs and activities carried out under
the national service laws could better serve veterans and
veterans service organizations;
(3) gaps in service to veterans;
(4) prospects for better coordination of services;
(5) prospects for better utilization of veterans as
resources and volunteers; and
(6) methods for ensuring the efficient financial
organization of services directed towards veterans.
(b) Consultation.--The study shall be carried out in
consultation with veterans' service organizations, the
Department of Veterans Affairs, State veterans agencies, the
Department of Defense, and other individuals and entities the
Corporation considers appropriate.
(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Corporation shall submit to
Congress a report on the results of the planning study
required by subsection (a), together with a plan for
implementation of a pilot program using promising strategies
and approaches for better targeting and serving veterans.
(d) Pilot Program.--From amounts made available to carry
out this subsection, the Corporation shall develop and carry
out a pilot program based on the findings in the report
submitted under subsection (c).
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized
to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may
be necessary for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
Subtitle H--Amendments to Subtitle H
SEC. 1801. TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO SUBTITLE H.
(a) Additional Corporation Activities To Support National
Service.--Subtitle H is amended by inserting after the
subtitle heading and before section 198 the following:
``PART I--ADDITIONAL CORPORATION ACTIVITIES TO SUPPORT NATIONAL
SERVICE''.
(b) Technical Amendments.--Section 198 (42 U.S.C. 12653) is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``subsection (r)'' and
inserting ``subsection (g)'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``national service
programs, including service-learning programs, and to support
innovative and model programs, including'' and inserting
``service-learning programs and national service programs,
including'';
(3) by striking subsections (c), (d), (e), and (f);
(4) by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection (c);
(5) by striking subsections (h), (i), and (j);
(6) by redesignating subsection (k) as subsection (d);
(7) by striking subsections (l) and (m);
(8) by redesignating subsections (n) and (o) as subsections
(e) and (f), respectively;
(9) by striking subsections (p) and (q);
(10) by redesignating subsection (r) as subsection (g); and
(11) by redesignating subsection (s) as subsection (h).
SEC. 1802. REPEALS.
The following provisions are repealed:
(1) Clearinghouses.--Section 198A (42 U.S.C. 12653a).
(2) Military installation conversion demonstration
programs.--Section 198C (42 U.S.C. 12653c).
(3) Special demonstration project.--Section 198D (42 U.S.C.
12653d).
SEC. 1803. INNOVATIVE AND MODEL PROGRAM SUPPORT.
Subtitle H is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``PART II--INNOVATIVE AND MODEL PROGRAM SUPPORT
``SEC. 198D. INNOVATIVE AND MODEL PROGRAM SUPPORT.
``(a) Methods of Conducting Activities.--The Corporation
may, through grants and fixed amount grants under subsection
(c), carry out the following programs:
``(1) Programs for disadvantaged youth.--A program selected
from among those listed in 122(a) where no less than 75
percent of the participants are disadvantaged youth.
``(A) Components of programs.--Such programs may include
life skills training, employment training, educational
counseling, program to complete a high-school diploma or GED,
counseling, or a mentoring relationship with an adult
volunteer.
``(B) Priority.--Priority shall be given to programs that
engage retirees to serve as mentors.
``(2) Programs focused on learning and thinking skills.--
Service programs to solve community problems while engaging
or developing 21st century learning and thinking skills
(critical-thinking and problem solving, communication skills,
creativity and innovation skills, collaboration skills,
contextual learning skills, information and media literacy
skills, and information and communications literacy) and life
skills (leadership, ethics, accountability, adaptability,
personal productivity, personal responsibility, people
skills, self-direction, and social responsibility) for
school-age youth and low income adults. This may be a summer
of service program or a year-round service program. Priority
shall be given to programs that collaborate with the RSVP
program, the AmeriCorps programs, or the Learn and Serve
programs.
``(3) Programs that engage youth under the age of 17.--
Programs that engage youth under the age of 17 in service to
the community to meet unmet human, educational,
environmental, emergency and disaster preparedness, or public
safety needs and may be a summer program or a year-round
program. Priority shall be given to programs that collaborate
with the RSVP Program and the AmeriCorps programs.
``(4) Programs that focus on health and wellness.--Service
programs that focus on the health and wellness of the members
of a low-income or rural community. Priority shall be given
to service programs that work to--
``(A) involve the community in service to those who are at-
risk to not receive or pursue health care through such
activities as health and wellness education, prevention, and
care;
``(B) include in the service program employment training,
where applicable, for participants in the program and may
extend this opportunity to members of the community; and
``(C) collaborate with local institutions of higher
education to include, as a portion of the pre-professional
training of health care professionals including nurses,
doctors, physician assistants, dentists, and emergency
medical technicians, a service component to meet unmet
healthcare and wellness needs in the community in which the
service program is being carried out.
``(5) Programs that reduce recidivism.--Programs that re-
engage court-involved youth and adults with the goal of
reducing recidivism. Priority shall be given to such programs
that create support systems beginning in corrections
facilities, and programs that have life skills training,
employment training, an education program, including a
program to complete a high-school diploma or GED, educational
and career counseling, post program placement, and support
services, which could begin in corrections facilities. The
program may include health and wellness programs, including
but not limited to drug and alcohol treatment, mental health
counseling, and smoking cessation.
``(6) Programs that recruit certain individuals.--
Demonstration projects for programs that have as one of their
primary purposes the recruitment and acceptance of court-
involved youth and adults as participants, volunteers, or
members. Such a program may serve any purpose otherwise
permitted under this Act.
``(7) Other innovative and model programs.--Any other
innovative and model programs that the Corporation considers
appropriate.
``(b) Requirements.--
``(1) Three-year term.--Each program funded under this part
shall be carried out over a period of three years, including
one planning year and two additional grant years, with a 1-
year extension possible, if the program meets performance
measures developed in accordance with section 179(a) and any
other criteria determined by the Corporation.
``(2) Encouragement.--Each program funded under this part
is encouraged to collaborate with Learn and Serve,
AmeriCorps, VISTA, and the National Senior Service Corps.
``(3) Evaluation.--Upon completion of the program, the
Corporation shall conduct an independent evaluation of the
program and widely disseminate the results to the service
community through multiple channels, including the
Corporation's Resource Center or a clearinghouse of effective
strategies and recommendations for improvement.
``(c) Fixed Amount Grants.--
``(1) General.--For purposes of subsection (a), and subject
to the limitations in this subsection, the Corporation may,
upon making a determination described in paragraph (2),
approve a fixed amount grant that is not subject to the
Office of Management and Budget cost principles and related
financial recordkeeping requirements.
``(2) Determination.--Before approving a fixed amount
grant, the Corporation must determine that--
``(A) the reasonable and necessary costs of carrying out
the terms of the grant significantly exceed the amount of
assistance provided by the Corporation; or
``(B) based on the nature or design of the grant, any
assistance provided by the Corporation can be reasonably
presumed to be expended on reasonable and necessary costs.
``(3) Matching funds.--
``(A) In general.--The Federal share of the cost of
carrying out a program for which a grant is made under this
part may not exceed 50 percent of the total cost of the
program.
``(B) Non-federal contribution.--In providing for the
remaining share of the cost of carrying out such a program,
each recipient of a grant under this part--
``(i) shall provide for such share through a payment in
cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including facilities,
equipment, or services; and
``(ii) may provide for such share through State sources or
local sources, including private funds or donated services.
[[Page H1371]]
``(d) Applications.--To be eligible to carry out a program
under this part, an entity shall prepare, submit to the
Corporation, and obtain approval of, an application at such
time and in such manner as the Corporation requires, and in
such manner as the Chief Executive Officer may reasonably
require.''.
SEC. 1804. CLEARINGHOUSES.
Subtitle H is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``PART III--NATIONAL SERVICE PROGRAMS CLEARINGHOUSE
``SEC. 198E. NATIONAL SERVICE PROGRAMS CLEARINGHOUSE.
``(a) In General.--The Corporation shall provide
assistance, either by grant, contract, or cooperative
agreement, to entities with expertise in the dissemination of
information through clearinghouses to establish one or more
clearinghouses for the national service laws.
``(b) Function of Clearinghouse.--Such a clearinghouse
may--
``(1) assist entities carrying out State or local service-
learning and national service programs with needs assessments
and planning;
``(2) conduct research and evaluations concerning service-
learning or programs receiving assistance under the national
service laws unless the recipient is receiving funds for such
purpose under part III of subtitle B and under subtitle H;
``(3)(A) provide leadership development and training to
State and local service-learning program administrators,
supervisors, service sponsors, and participants; and
``(B) provide training to persons who can provide the
leadership development and training described in subparagraph
(A);
``(4) facilitate communication among entities carrying out
service-learning programs and programs offered under the
national service laws and participants in such programs;
``(5) provide and disseminate information and curriculum
materials relating to planning and operating service-learning
programs and programs offered under the national service
laws, to States, Territories, Indian tribes, and local
entities eligible to receive financial assistance under the
national service laws;
``(6) provide and disseminate information regarding methods
to make service-learning programs and programs offered under
the national service laws accessible to individuals with
disabilities;
``(7) disseminate applications in languages other than
English;
``(8)(A) gather and disseminate information on successful
service-learning programs and programs offered under the
national service laws, components of such successful
programs, innovative curricula related to service-learning,
and service-learning projects; and
``(B) coordinate the activities of the Clearinghouse with
appropriate entities to avoid duplication of effort;
``(9) make recommendations to State and local entities on
quality controls to improve the quality of service-learning
programs and programs offered under the national service
laws;
``(10) assist organizations in recruiting, screening, and
placing a diverse population of service-learning coordinators
and program sponsors;
``(11) collaborate with the Office of Outreach and
Recruitment on an alumni network for those former
participants in an approved national service position, to
facilitate communication and collaboration between alumni and
to leverage their skills, knowledge, and experiences to
improve service across our Nation and also serve in a Reserve
Corps, who are ready to serve in times of national need;
``(12) disseminate effective strategies for working with
disadvantaged youth in national service programs as
determined by organizations with an established expertise
working with such youth; and
``(13) carry out such other activities as the Chief
Executive Officer determines to be appropriate.''.
Subtitle I--American Conservation and Youth Service Corps
SEC. 1811. STATE APPLICATION.
Section 199C(a) (42 U.S.C. 12655b(a)) is amended by
inserting after ``a State'' the following: ``, Territory,''.
Subtitle J--Training and Technical Assistance
SEC. 1821. TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.
Title I is further amended by adding at the end the
following new subtitle:
``Subtitle J--Training and Technical Assistance
``SEC. 199N. TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.
``(a) In General.--The Corporation shall conduct, either
directly or through grants, contracts, or cooperative
agreements, including through State Commissions on National
and Community Service, appropriate training and technical
assistance to--
``(1) programs receiving assistance under the national
service laws; and
``(2) entities (particularly those in rural areas and
underserved communities)--
``(A) that desire to carry out or establish national
service programs;
``(B) that desire to apply for assistance under the
national service laws; or
``(C) that desire to apply for a subgrant under the
national service laws.
``(b) Activities Included.--Such training and technical
assistance activities may include--
``(1) providing technical assistance to those applying to
carry out national service programs or those carrying out
national service programs;
``(2) promoting leadership development in national service
programs;
``(3) improving the instructional and programmatic quality
of national service programs;
``(4) developing the management and budgetary skills of
those operating or overseeing national service programs,
including to increase the cost effectiveness of the programs
under the national service laws;
``(5) providing for or improving the training provided to
the participants in programs under the national service laws;
``(6) facilitating the education of national service
programs in risk management procedures, including the
training of participants in appropriate risk management
practices;
``(7) training of those operating or overseeing national
service programs in volunteer recruitment, management, and
retention to improve the abilities of such individuals to use
participants and other volunteers in an effective manner
which results in high quality service and the desire of
participants or volunteers to continue to serve in other
capacities after the program is completed;
``(8) training of those operating or overseeing national
service programs in program evaluation and performance
measures to inform practices to augment the capacity and
sustainability of the program;
``(9) training of those operating or overseeing national
service programs to effectively accommodate people with
disabilities to increase the participation of people with
disabilities in national service programs;
``(10) establishing networks and collaboration among
employers, educators, and other key stakeholders in the
community to further leverage resources to increase local
participation and to coordinate community-wide planning and
service;
``(11) providing training and technical assistance for the
National Senior Service Corps; and
``(12) carrying out such other activities as the Chief
Executive Officer determines to be appropriate.
``(c) Priority.--The Corporation shall give priority to
programs under the national service laws and those entities
wishing to establish programs under the national service laws
seeking training or technical assistance that--
``(1) seek to carry out (as defined in section 101) high
quality programs where the services are needed most;
``(2) seek to carry out (as defined in section 101) high
quality programs where national service programs do not
currently exist or where the programs are too limited to meet
community needs;
``(3) seek to carry out (as defined in section 101) high
quality programs that focus on and provide service
opportunities for underserved rural and urban areas and
populations; and
``(4) assist programs in developing a service component
that combines students, out-of-school youths, and older
adults as participants to provide needed community
services.''.
Subtitle K--Repeal of Title III (Points of Light Foundation)
SEC. 1831. REPEAL.
Title III (42 U.S.C. 12661 et seq.) is repealed.
Subtitle L--Amendments to Title V (Authorization of Appropriations)
SEC. 1841. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 501 (42 U.S.C. 12681) is amended to read as
follows:
``SEC. 501. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``(a) Title I.--
``(1) Subtitle b.--
``(A) In general.--There are authorized to be appropriated
to provide financial assistance under subtitle B of title I--
``(i) $65,000,000 for fiscal year 2008, of which
$10,000,000 shall be for summer of service grants and
$10,000,000 shall be deposited in the National Service Trust
to support summer of service educational awards; and
``(ii) such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal
years 2009 through 2012.
``(B) Programs.--Of the amount appropriated under
subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year--
``(i) not more than 63.75 percent shall be available to
provide financial assistance under part I of subtitle B of
title I;
``(ii) not more than 25 percent shall be available to
provide financial assistance under part II of such subtitle;
and
``(iii) not less than 11.25 percent shall be available to
provide financial assistance under part III of such subtitle.
``(2) Subtitles c, d, and h.--
``(A) In general.--There are authorized to be appropriated
to provide financial assistance under subtitles C and H of
title I, to administer the National Service Trust and
disburse national service educational awards and scholarships
under subtitle D of title I, and to carry out such audits and
evaluations as the Chief Executive Officer or the Inspector
General of the Corporation may determine to be necessary,
$485,000,000 for fiscal year 2008, and such sums as may be
necessary for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.
``(B) Programs.--Of the amount appropriated under
subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year, up to 15 percent shall be
made available to provide financial assistance under
subsections (b) and (c) of section 126, and under subtitle H
of title I.
``(C) Subtitle c.--Of the amount appropriated under
subparagraph (A), the following amounts shall be made
available to provide financial assistance under section 121
of subtitle C of title I:
``(i) For fiscal year 2008, not more than $324,000,000.
``(ii) For fiscal year 2009, not more than $357,000,000.
``(iii) For fiscal year 2010, not more than $397,000,000.
``(iv) For each of fiscal years 2011 through 2012, such
sums as may be necessary.
``(3) Subtitle e.--There are authorized to be appropriated
to operate the National Civilian
[[Page H1372]]
Community Corps and provide financial assistance under
subtitle E of title I, $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2008 and
such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2009
through 2012.
``(4) Administration.--
``(A) In general.--There are authorized to be appropriated
for the administration of this Act, including financial
assistance under sections 126(a) and 196B, $51,000,000 for
fiscal year 2008 and such sums as may be necessary for each
of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.
``(B) Corporation.--Of the amounts appropriated under
subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year--
``(i) up to 69 percent shall be made available to the
Corporation for the administration of this Act, including to
provide financial assistance under section 196B; and
``(ii) the remainder shall be available to provide
financial assistance under section 126(a).
``(5) Training and technical assistance.--Of the amounts
appropriated for a fiscal year under subtitles B, C, and H of
title I of this Act and under titles I and II of the Domestic
Volunteer Service Act of 1973, the Corporation shall reserve
up to 2.5 percent to carry out subtitle J of this Act.
Notwithstanding subsection (b), amounts so reserved shall be
available only for the fiscal year for which they are
reserved.
``(b) Availability of Appropriations.--Funds appropriated
under this section shall remain available until expended.''.
TITLE II--AMENDMENTS TO THE DOMESTIC VOLUNTEER SERVICE ACT OF 1973
SEC. 2001. REFERENCES.
Except as otherwise specifically provided, whenever in this
title an amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an
amendment to, or repeal of a provision, the reference shall
be considered to be made to a provision of the Domestic
Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4950 et seq.).
Subtitle A--Amendments to Title I (National Volunteer Antipoverty
Programs)
SEC. 2101. PURPOSE.
Section 2 (42 U.S.C. 4950) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``both young and older
citizens'' and inserting ``citizens of all ages and
backgrounds''; and
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``local agencies'' and
all that follows through the period at the end and inserting
``local agencies, expand relationships with, and support for,
the efforts of civic, community, and educational
organizations, and utilize the energy, innovative spirit,
experience, and skills of all Americans.''.
SEC. 2102. PURPOSE OF THE VISTA PROGRAM.
Section 101 (42 U.S.C. 4951) is amended--
(1) in the second sentence, by striking ``afflicted with''
and inserting ``affected by''; and
(2) in the third sentence, by striking ``local level'' and
all that follows through the period at the end and inserting
``local level, to support efforts by local agencies and
organizations to achieve long-term sustainability of
projects, consistent with section 186 of the National and
Community Service Act of 1990, initiated or expanded under
the VISTA program activities, and to strengthen local
agencies and community organizations to carry out the purpose
of this part.''.
SEC. 2103. APPLICATIONS.
Section 103 (42 U.S.C. 4953) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``the Commonwealth of
the Northern Mariana Islands,'' after ``American Samoa,'';
and
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by striking ``handicapped'' and inserting ``disabled'';
and
(ii) by striking ``handicaps'' and inserting
``disabilities'';
(C) in paragraph (3), by striking ``jobless, the hungry,
and low-income'' and inserting ``unemployed, the hungry, and
low-income'';
(D) in paragraph (4), by striking ``prevention,
education,'' and inserting ``through prevention, education,
rehabilitation, and treatment,'';
(E) in paragraph (5), by inserting ``, mental illness,''
after ``including'';
(F) in paragraph (6), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a
semicolon;
(G) in paragraph (7), by striking the period and inserting
a semicolon; and
(H) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
``(8) in the re-entry and re-integration of formerly
incarcerated youth and adults into society, including life
skills training, employment training, counseling, educational
training, and educational counseling;
``(9) in developing and carrying out financial literacy,
financial planning, budgeting, savings, and reputable credit
accessibility programs in low-income communities, including
those programs which educate on financing home ownership and
higher education;
``(10) in initiating and supporting before-school and
after-school programs servicing children in low-income
communities that may engage participants in mentoring
relationships, tutoring, life skills, or study skills
programs, service-learning, physical, nutrition, and health
education programs, including programs aimed at fighting
childhood obesity, and other activities addressing the needs
of the community's children;
``(11) in establishing and supporting community economic
development initiatives, including micro-enterprises, with a
priority on such programs in rural areas and other areas
where such programs are needed most;
``(12) in assisting veterans and their families through
establishing or augmenting programs which assist such persons
with access to legal assistance, health care (including
mental health), employment counseling or training, education
counseling or training, affordable housing, and other support
services; and
``(13) in addressing the health and wellness of low-income
and underserved communities, including programs to increase
access to preventive services, insurance, and health care.'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``recruitment and
placement procedures'' and inserting ``recruitment and
placement procedures that involve sponsoring organizations
and'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``central information
system that shall, on request, promptly provide'' and
inserting ``database that provides''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (C)--
(I) by striking ``timely and effective'' and inserting
``timely and cost-effective''; and
(II) by striking ``the recruitment of volunteers'' and
inserting ``recruitment and management of volunteers''; and
(C) in paragraph (3), by adding at the end the following:
``The Director shall give priority to--
``(A) disadvantaged youth (as defined in section 101 of the
National and Community Service Act of 1990) and low-income
adults; and
``(B) retired adults of any profession, but with an
emphasis on those professions whose services and training are
most needed in a community, such as the health care
professions, teaching, counseling, and engineering and other
professions requiring a high level of technical and project
management skills, to utilize their experience, including
professional skills, in the VISTA program.'';
(D) in paragraph (5)(B), by striking ``information system''
and inserting ``database'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``personnel described in subsection (b)(2)(C)'' and inserting
``personnel described in subsection (b)(2)(C), sponsoring
organizations, and the Office of Outreach and Recruitment'';
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``the Internet and
related technologies,'' after ``television,'';
(iii) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``Internet and
related technologies,'' after ``through the'';
(iv) in subparagraph (C), by inserting after ``senior
citizens organizations,'' the following: ``offices of
economic development, State employment security agencies,
employment offices,'';
(v) in subparagraph (F), by striking ``National and
Community Service Trust Act of 1993'' and inserting
``National and Community Service Act of 1990''; and
(vi) in subparagraph (G), by striking ``, on request,'';
(B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``this subsection'' and
inserting ``this subsection and related public awareness and
recruitment activities under the national service laws and
through the Office of Outreach and Recruitment''; and
(C) in paragraph (4)--
(i) by striking ``Beginning'' and all that follows through
``for the purpose'' and inserting ``For the purpose''; and
(ii) by striking ``1.5 percent'' and inserting ``2
percent'';
(4) by amending the second sentence of subsection (d) to
read as follows: ``Whenever feasible, such efforts shall be
coordinated with an appropriate local workforce investment
board established under section 117 of the Workforce
Investment Act of 1998.'';
(5) in subsection (g) by striking ``and has been submitted
to the Governor'' and all that follows and inserting a
period; and
(6) by adding at the end the following:
``(i) The Director may enter into agreements under which
public and private nonprofit organizations, with sufficient
financial capacity and size, pay for all or a portion of the
costs of supporting the service of volunteers under this
title, consistent with the provisions of section 186 of the
National and Community Service Act of 1990.''.
SEC. 2104. VISTA PROGRAMS OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.
Part A of title I is amended by inserting after section 103
(42 U.S.C. 4953) the following:
``SEC. 103A. VISTA PROGRAMS OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.
``(a) In General.--With not less than one-third of the
funds made available under subsection (d) in each fiscal
year, the Director shall make grants for VISTA positions to
support programs of national significance. Each program for
which a grant is received under this subsection shall be
carried out in accordance with the requirements applicable to
that program.
``(b) Activities Supported.--The Director shall make grants
under subsection (a) to support one or more of the following
programs to address problems that concern low-income and
rural communities in the Nation:
``(1) In developing and carrying-out financial literacy,
financial planning, budgeting, savings, and reputable credit
accessibility programs in low-income communities, including
those programs which educate on financing home ownership and
higher education.
``(2) In initiating and supporting before-school and after-
school programs in low-income communities that may include
such activities as establishing mentoring relationships,
physical education, tutoring, instruction in 21st century
thinking skills, life skills, and study skills, community
service, service-learning, nutrition and health education,
and other activities aimed at keeping children, safe,
educated, and healthy, which serve the children in such
community.
``(3) In establishing and supporting community economic
development initiatives, including micro-enterprises, with a
priority on such programs in rural areas and areas where such
programs are needed most.
``(4) In assisting veterans and their families through
establishing or augmenting programs which assist such persons
with access to legal assistance, health care (including
mental health), employment counseling or training, education
counseling or training, affordable housing, and other support
services.
[[Page H1373]]
``(5) In addressing the health and wellness of low-income
and underserved communities across our Nation, including
programs to fight childhood obesity through nutrition,
physical fitness, and other associated life skills education
programs and programs to increase access to preventive
services, insurance, and health care.
``(c) Requirements.--
``(1) Eligibility.--In order to receive a grant under
subsection (a), an applicant shall submit an application to
the Director at such time and in such manner as the Director
requires and receive approval of the application. Such
application shall, at a minimum, demonstrate to the Director
a level of expertise in carrying out such a program.
``(2) Supplement not supplant.--Funds made available under
subsection (d) shall be used to supplement and not supplant
the number of VISTA volunteers engaged in programs addressing
the problem for which such funds are awarded unless such sums
are an extension of funds previously provided under this
title.
``(d) Funding.--
``(1) In general.--From the amounts appropriate under
section 501 for each fiscal year there shall be available to
the Director such sums as may be necessary to make grants
under subsection (a).
``(2) Limitation.--No funds shall be made available to the
Director to make grants under subsection (a) unless the
amounts appropriated under section 501 available for such
fiscal year to carry out part A are sufficient to maintain
the number of projects and volunteers funded under part A in
the preceding fiscal year.
``(e) Information.--The Director shall widely disseminate
information on grants that may be made under this section,
including through the Office of Outreach and Recruitment and
other volunteer recruitment programs being carried out by
public or private non-profit organizations.''.
SEC. 2105. TERMS AND PERIODS OF SERVICE.
Section 104(d) (42 U.S.C. 4954(d)) is amended--
(1) in the first sentence, by striking ``with the terms and
conditions of their service.'' and inserting ``with the terms
and conditions of their service or any adverse action, such
as termination, proposed by the sponsoring organization. The
procedure shall provide for an appeal to the Director of any
proposed termination.''; and
(2) in the third sentence (as amended by this section), by
striking ``and the terms and conditions of their service''.
SEC. 2106. SUPPORT SERVICE.
Section 105(a)(1)(B) (42 U.S.C. 4955(a)(1)(B)) is amended
by striking ``Such stipend'' and all that follows through
``in the case of persons'' and inserting ``Such stipend shall
be set at a minimum of $125 per month and a maximum of $150
per month, subject to the availability of funds to accomplish
such a maximum. The Director may provide a stipend of $250
per month in the case of persons''.
SEC. 2107. SECTIONS REPEALED.
The following provisions are repealed:
(1) VISTA literacy corps.--Section 109 (42 U.S.C. 4959).
(2) University year for vista.--Part B of title I (42
U.S.C. 4971 et seq.).
(3) Literacy challenge grants.--Section 124 (42 U.S.C.
4995).
SEC. 2108. CONFORMING AMENDMENT.
Section 121 (42 U.S.C. 4991) is amended in the second
sentence by striking ``situations'' and inserting
``organizations''.
SEC. 2109. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE.
Section 123 (42 U.S.C. 4993) is amended--
(1) in the section heading by striking ``TECHNICAL AND'';
and
(2) by striking ``technical and''.
Subtitle B--Amendments to Title II (National Senior Volunteer Corps)
SEC. 2201. CHANGE IN NAME.
Title II (42 U.S.C. 5000 et seq.) is amended in the title
heading by striking ``NATIONAL SENIOR VOLUNTEER CORPS'' and
inserting ``NATIONAL SENIOR SERVICE CORPS''.
SEC. 2202. PURPOSE.
Section 200 (42 U.S.C. 5000) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 200. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE.
``It is the purpose of this title to provide--
``(1) opportunities for senior service to meet unmet local,
State, and national needs in the areas of education, public
safety, emergency and disaster preparedness, relief, and
recovery, health and human needs, and the environment;
``(2) for the National Senior Service Corps, comprised of
the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, the Foster
Grandparent Program, and the Senior Companion Program, and
demonstration and other programs to empower people 55 years
of age or older to contribute to their communities through
service, enhance the lives of those who serve and those whom
they serve, and provide communities with valuable services;
``(3) opportunities for people 55 years of age or older,
through the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, to share
their knowledge, experiences, abilities, and skills for the
betterment of their communities and themselves;
``(4) opportunities for low-income people 55 years of age
or older, through the Foster Grandparents Program, to have a
positive impact on the lives of children in need;
``(5) opportunities for low-income people 55 years of age
or older, through the Senior Companion Program, to provide
critical support services and companionship to adults at risk
of institutionalization and who are struggling to maintain a
dignified independent life; and
``(6) for research, training, demonstration, and other
program activities to increase and improve opportunities for
people 55 years of age or older to meet unmet needs,
including those related to public safety, public health, and
emergency and disaster preparedness, relief, and recovery, in
their communities.''.
SEC. 2203. GRANTS AND CONTRACTS FOR VOLUNTEER SERVICE
PROJECTS.
Section 201 (42 U.S.C. 5001) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``avail themselves of opportunities for volunteer service in
their community'' and inserting ``share their experiences,
abilities, and skills for the betterment of their communities
and themselves through service'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``, and individuals 60
years of age or older will be given priority for
enrollment,'';
(C) in paragraph (3) by inserting ``either prior to or
during the volunteer service'' after ``may be necessary'';
and--
(D) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following:
``(4) the project is being designed and implemented with
the advice of experts in the field of service to be delivered
as well as with those who have expertise in the recruitment
and management of volunteers, particularly those of the Baby
Boom generation.'';
(2) by amending subsection (c) to read as follows:
``(c) The Director shall give priority to projects--
``(1) utilizing retired scientists, technicians, engineers,
and mathematicians (the STEM professionals) to improve
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
education through activities such as assisting teachers in
classroom demonstrations or laboratory experiences, running
after-school, weekend, or summer programs designed to engage
disadvantaged youth (as defined in section 101 of the
National and Community Service Act of 1990) or low-income,
minority youth in the STEM fields and to improve mastery of
the STEM content, providing field trips to businesses,
institutions of higher education, museums, and other
locations where the STEM professions are practiced or
illuminated;
``(2) utilizing retired health care professionals to
improve the health and wellness of low income or rural
communities;
``(3) utilizing retired criminal justice professionals for
programs designed to prevent disadvantaged youth (as defined
in section 101 of the National and Community Service Act of
1990) from joining gangs or committing crimes;
``(4) utilizing retired military and emergency
professionals for programs to improve public safety,
emergency and disaster preparedness, relief, and recovery,
search and rescue, and homeland security efforts; and
``(5) utilizing retired computer science professionals,
technicians of related technologies, business professionals,
and others with relevant knowledge to increase, for low
income individuals and families, access to and obtaining the
benefits from computers and other existing and emerging
technologies.''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(e) Competitive Re-Evaluation.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 412, a grant or
contract shall not, after fiscal year 2009, be awarded or
renewed under this section unless--
``(A) the program for which the award or renewal is to be
made is competitively re-evaluated in comparison to other
programs; or
``(B) the program for which the award or renewal is to be
made--
``(i) received an award or renewal in a fiscal year that
was both--
``(I) within the preceding three fiscal years; and
``(II) after fiscal year 2009; and
``(ii) was competitively re-evaluated in connection with
that award or renewal in that fiscal year.
``(2) Requirements.--Each competitive re-evaluation
required by paragraph (1) shall be carried out through a
process that ensures that--
``(A) the resulting grants (or contracts) support no less
than the volunteer service years of the previous grant (or
contract) cycle in a given service area;
``(B) the resulting grants (or contracts) maintain a
similar program distribution; and
``(C) every effort is made to minimalize the disruption of
volunteers.
``(3) Priority consideration.--The competitive re-
evaluation shall include some form of priority consideration
for existing grantees in good standing.''.
SEC. 2204. FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM GRANTS.
Section 211 (42 U.S.C. 5011) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``low-income persons
aged sixty or over'' and inserting ``low-income and other
persons aged 55 or over'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``shall have the exclusive authority to determine, pursuant
to the provisions of paragraph (2) of this subsection--'' and
inserting ``may determine--'';
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and'';
(iii) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period and
inserting ``; and''; and
(iv) by adding after subparagraph (B) the following:
``(C) whether it is in the best interests of a child
receiving, and of a particular foster grandparent providing,
services in such a project, to continue such relationship
after the child reaches the age of 21, if such child was
receiving such services prior to attaining the age of 21.'';
(B) by striking paragraph (2); and
(C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2);
(3) in paragraph (2) (as redesignated by this section), by
striking ``paragraphs (1) and (2)'' and inserting ``paragraph
(1)'';
(4) by adding after paragraph (2) (as redesignated by this
section) the following:
``(3) If an assignment of a foster grandparent is suspended
or discontinued, the replacement of
[[Page H1374]]
that foster grandparent shall be determined through the
mutual agreement of all parties involved in the provision of
services to the child.'';
(5) in subsection (d), in the second sentence, by striking
``Any stipend'' and all that follows through ``inflation,''
and inserting ``Any stipend or allowance provided under this
part shall not exceed 75 percent of the minimum wage under
section 6 the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C.
206), and the Federal share shall not be less than $2.65 per
hour, provided that the Director shall adjust the Federal
share once prior to December 31, 2012, to account for
inflation,'';
(6) in subsection (e)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``125'' and inserting
``200''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``, as so adjusted'' and
all that follows through ``local situations'';
(7) by striking subsection (f) and inserting:
``(f)(1) Subject to the restrictions in paragraph (3),
individuals who are not low-income persons may serve as
volunteers under this part. The regulations issued by the
Director to carry out this part (other than regulations
relating to stipends or allowances to individuals authorized
by subsection (d)) shall apply to all volunteers under this
part, without regard to whether such volunteers are eligible
to receive a stipend or allowance under subsection (d).
``(2) Except as provided under paragraph (1), each
recipient of a grant or contract to carry out a project under
this part shall give equal treatment to all volunteers who
participate in such project, without regard to whether such
volunteers are eligible to receive a stipend or allowance
under subsection (d).
``(3) An individual who is not a low-income person may not
become a volunteer under this part if allowing that
individual to become a volunteer under this part would
prevent a low-income person from becoming a volunteer under
this part or would displace a low-income person from being a
volunteer under this part.
``(4) The Office of Outreach and Recruitment shall conduct
outreach to ensure the inclusion of low-income persons in
programs and activities authorized under this title.''; and
(8) by adding at the end the following new subsections:
``(g) The Director may also provide a stipend or allowance
in an amount not to exceed 10 percent more than the amount
established under subsection (d) to leaders who, on the basis
of past experience as volunteers, special skills, and
demonstrated leadership abilities, may coordinate activities,
including training, and otherwise support the service of
volunteers under this part.
``(h) The program may accept up to 15 percent of volunteers
serving in a project under this part for a fiscal year who do
not meet the definition of `low-income' under subsection (e),
upon certification by the recipient of a grant or contract
that it is unable to effectively recruit and place low-income
volunteers in the number of placements approved for the
project.''.
SEC. 2205. SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM GRANTS.
Section 213 (42 U.S.C. 5013) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``low-income persons
aged 60 or over'' and inserting ``low-income and other
persons aged 55 or over'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``Subsections (d), (e),
and (f)'' and inserting ``Subsections (d) through (h)''; and
(3) by striking subsection (c)(2)(B) and inserting the
following:
``(B) Senior companion volunteer trainers and leaders may
receive a stipend or allowance consistent with subsection (g)
authorized under subsection (d) of section 211, as approved
by the Director.''.
SEC. 2206. PROMOTION OF NATIONAL SENIOR SERVICE CORPS.
Section 221 (42 U.S.C. 5021) is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by striking ``volunteer'' and
inserting ``service''; and
(2) in subsection (b)(2), by inserting ``of all ages and
backgrounds living in rural, suburban, and urban localities''
after ``greater participation of volunteers''.
SEC. 2207. TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS.
(a) Change in Age Eligibility.--Section 223 (42 U.S.C.
5023) is amended by striking ``sixty years and older from
minority groups'' and inserting ``55 years and older from
minority and underserved populations''.
(b) Name Change.--Section 224 (42 U.S.C. 5024) is amended
in the heading by striking ``volunteer'' and inserting
``service''.
SEC. 2208. PROGRAMS OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.
Section 225 (42 U.S.C. 5025) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Applicants for grants under paragraph (1) shall
determine which program under part A, B, or C the program
shall be carried out and submit an application as required
for programs under part A, B, or C.''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(4) The Director shall ensure that at least 50 percent of
the grants made under this section are from applicants
currently not receiving assistance from the Corporation and
when possible in locations where there are no current
programs under part A, B, C in existence.'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by inserting before the period at the
end the following: ``or Alzheimer's disease, with an intent
of allowing those served to age in place'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by inserting before the period at the
end the following: ``through education, prevention,
treatment, and rehabilitation'';
(C) in paragraph (3), by inserting before the period at the
end the following: ``, including programs that teach
parenting skills, life skills, family management skills,
assists in obtaining affordable childcare, offers or assists
in locating employment training or placement, and other
skills and services needed by teenage parents and their
families to establish a healthy environment for their
children'';
(D) by amending paragraph (4) to read as follows:
``(4) Programs that establish and support mentoring
programs for disadvantaged youth (as defined in section 101
of the National and Community Service Act of 1990), including
those mentoring programs that match youth with volunteer
mentors leading to apprenticeship programs and employment
training.'';
(E) in paragraph (5), by inserting before the period at the
end the following: ``, including those programs that serve
youth and adults with limited English proficiency'';
(F) in paragraph (6), by striking ``and'' and all that
follows through the period and insert ``and for individuals
and children with disabilities or chronic illnesses living at
home.'';
(G) in paragraph (7), by striking ``after-school
activities'' and all that follows through the period at the
end and inserting ``after-school programs serving children in
low-income communities that may engage participants in
mentoring relationships, tutoring, life skills or study
skills programs, service-learning, physical, nutrition, and
health education programs, including programs aimed at
fighting childhood obesity, and other activities addressing
the needs of the community's children, including those of
working parents.'';
(H) by striking paragraphs (8), (9), (12), (13), (14),
(15), (16), and (18);
(I) by redesignating paragraphs (10) and (11) as paragraphs
(8) and (9), respectively;
(J) by inserting after paragraph (9) (as so redesignated)
the following:
``(10) Programs that engage older adults with children and
youth to complete service in energy conservation,
environmental stewardship, or other environmental needs of a
community.
``(11) Programs that collaborate with criminal justice
professionals and organizations in prevention programs aimed
at disadvantaged youth (as defined in section 101 of the
National and Community Service Act of 1990) or youth re-
entering society after incarceration and their families,
which may include mentoring and counseling, which many
include employment counseling.'';
(K) by redesignating paragraph (17) as paragraph (12); and
(L) by adding at the end the following:
``(13) Programs that strengthen community efforts in
support of homeland security.'';
(3) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ``shall demonstrate
to the Director'' and all that follows through the period at
the end and inserting ``shall demonstrate to the Director a
level of expertise in carrying out such a program.''; and
(4) in subsection (e)--
(A) by inserting ``widely'' before ``disseminate''; and
(B) by striking ``to field personnel'' and all that follows
through the period at the end and inserting ``, including
through the Office of Outreach and Recruitment and other
volunteer recruitment programs being carried out by public or
private non-profit organizations.''.
SEC. 2209. ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS.
Part D of title II (42 U.S.C. 5000 et seq.) is amended by
adding after section 227 the following:
``SEC. 228. CONTINUITY OF SERVICE.
``To ensure the continued service of individuals in
communities served by the Retired and Senior Volunteer
Program prior to enactment of this section, in making grants
under this title the Corporation shall take actions it
considers necessary to maintain service assignments for such
seniors and to ensure continuity of service for communities.
``SEC. 229. ACCEPTANCE OF DONATIONS.
``(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), a
program receiving assistance under this title may accept
donations, including donations in cash or in kind.
``(b) Exception.--Notwithstanding subsection (a), a program
receiving assistance under this title shall not accept
donations from the beneficiaries of the program.''.
SEC. 2210. AUTHORITY OF DIRECTOR.
Section 231 (42 U.S.C. 5028) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``activities;'' and
inserting ``activities described in section 225(b) and
carried out through programs described in parts A, B, and C;
and''; and
(B) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) and inserting the
following:
``(2) programs that support older Americans in aging in
place while augmenting the capacity of members of a community
to serve each other through reciprocal service centers,
service credit banking, community economic scripts, barter
services, timebanking, and other similar programs.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Priority.--For purposes of subsection (b), priority
shall be given to--
``(1) programs with established experience in carrying out
such a program and engaging the entire community in service
exchange;
``(2) programs with the capacity to connect to similar
programs throughout a city or region to augment the available
services to older Americans and for members of the community
to serve each other;
``(3) programs seeking to establish in an area where needs
of older Americans are left unmet and older Americans are
unable to consider aging in place without such service
exchange in place; and
``(4) programs that integrate participants in or
collaborate with service-learning programs, AmeriCorps State
and National programs, the
[[Page H1375]]
VISTA program, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program,
Foster Grandparents program, and the Senior Companion
programs, and programs described in section 411 of the Older
Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3032).''.
Subtitle C--Amendments to Title IV (Administration and Coordination)
SEC. 2301. NONDISPLACEMENT.
Section 404(a) (42 U.S.C. 5044(a)) is amended by striking
``displacement of employed workers'' and inserting
``displacement of employed workers or volunteers (other than
participants under the national service laws)''.
SEC. 2302. NOTICE AND HEARING PROCEDURES.
Section 412(a) (42 U.S.C. 5052(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking ``75'' and inserting ``60''; and
(B) by adding ``and'' at the end;
(2) by striking paragraph (3); and
(3) by redesignating paragraph (4) as (3).
SEC. 2303. DEFINITIONS.
Section 421 (42 U.S.C. 5061) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``, the Commonwealth of
the Northern Mariana Islands,'' after ``American Samoa,'';
(2) in paragraph (13), by striking ``National Senior
Volunteer Corps'' and inserting ``National Senior Service
Corps''; and
(3) in paragraph (14)--
(A) by striking ``National Senior Volunteer Corps'' and
inserting ``National Senior Service Corps''; and
(B) by striking ``parts A, B, C, and E of'';
SEC. 2304. PROTECTION AGAINST IMPROPER USE.
Section 425 (42 U.S.C. 5065) is amended by striking
``National Senior Volunteer Corps'' and inserting ``National
Senior Service Corps''.
Subtitle D--Amendments to Title V (Authorization of Appropriations)
SEC. 2401. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR VISTA AND
OTHER PURPOSES.
Section 501 (42 U.S.C. 5081) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``, excluding section
109'' and all that follows and inserting ``$100,000,000 for
fiscal year 2008 and such sums as may be necessary for each
of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.'';
(B) by striking paragraphs (2) and (4) and redesignating
paragraphs (3) and (5) as paragraphs (2) and (3); and
(C) in paragraph (2) (as redesignated by this section), by
striking ``, excluding section 125'' and all that follows and
inserting ``such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal
years 2008 through 2012.''; and
(2) by striking subsection (e).
SEC. 2402. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR NATIONAL
SENIOR SERVICE CORPS.
Section 502 (42 U.S.C. 5082) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 502. NATIONAL SENIOR SERVICE CORPS.
``(a) Retired and Senior Volunteer Program.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out part A of title
II, $67,500,000 for fiscal year 2008 and such sums as may be
necessary for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.
``(b) Foster Grandparent Program.--There are authorized to
be appropriated to carry out part B of title II, $115,000,000
for fiscal year 2008 and such sums as may be necessary for
each of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.
``(c) Senior Companion Program.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out part C of title II, $52,000,000 for
fiscal year 2008 and such sums as may be necessary for each
of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.
``(d) Demonstration Programs.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out part E of title II, $500,000 for
fiscal year 2008 and such sums as may be necessary for each
of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.''.
SEC. 2403. ADMINISTRATION AND COORDINATION.
Section 504 (42 U.S.C. 5084) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 504. ADMINISTRATION AND COORDINATION.
``There are authorized to be appropriated for the
administration of this Act $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2008
and such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years
2009 through 2012.''.
TITLE III--AMENDMENTS TO OTHER LAWS
SEC. 3101. INSPECTOR GENERAL ACT OF 1978.
Section 8F(a)(1) of the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5
U.S.C. App.) is amended by striking ``National and Community
Service Trust Act of 1993'' and inserting ``National and
Community Service Act of 1990''.
TITLE IV--TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO TABLES OF CONTENTS
SEC. 4101. TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THE NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY
SERVICE ACT OF 1990.
Section 1(b) of the National and Community Service Act of
1990 (42 U.S.C. 12501 note) is amended to read as follows:
``(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this
Act is as follows:
``Sec. 1. Short title and table of contents.
``Sec. 2. Findings and purpose.
``Sec. 3. Sense of Congress.
``TITLE I--NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE STATE GRANT PROGRAM
``Subtitle A--General Provisions
``Sec. 101. Definitions.
``Subtitle B--School-Based and Community-Based Service-Learning
Programs
``Part I--Programs for Elementary and Secondary Students
``Sec. 111. Assistance to States, Territories, and Indian tribes.
``Sec. 112. Allotments.
``Sec. 113. Applications.
``Sec. 114. Consideration of applications.
``Sec. 115. Participation of students and teachers from private
schools.
``Sec. 116. Federal, State, and local contributions.
``Sec. 116A. Limitations on uses of funds.
``Part II--Higher Education Innovative Programs for Community Service
``Sec. 117. Higher education innovative programs for community service.
``Part III--Innovative Service-Learning Programs and Research
``Sec. 118. Innovative demonstration service-learning programs and
research.
``Subtitle C--National Service Trust Program
``Part I--Investment in National Service
``Sec. 121. Authority to provide assistance and approved national
service positions.
``Sec. 122. Types of national service programs eligible for program
assistance.
``Sec. 123. Types of national service positions eligible for approval
for national service educational awards.
``Sec. 124. Types of program assistance.
``Sec. 126. Other special assistance.
``Part II--Application and Approval Process
``Sec. 129. Provision of assistance and approved national service
positions.
``Sec. 129A. Education awards only research.
``Sec. 130. Application for assistance and approved national service
positions.
``Sec. 131. National service program assistance requirements.
``Sec. 132. Ineligible service categories.
``Sec. 133. Consideration of applications.
``Part III--National Service Participants
``Sec. 137. Description of participants.
``Sec. 138. Selection of national service participants.
``Sec. 139. Terms of service.
``Sec. 140. Living allowances for national service participants.
``Sec. 141. National service educational awards.
``Subtitle D--National Service Trust and Provision of National Service
Educational Awards
``Sec. 145. Establishment of the National Service Trust.
``Sec. 146. Individuals eligible to receive a national service
educational award from the Trust.
``Sec. 147. Determination of the amount of the national service
educational award.
``Sec. 148. Disbursement of national service educational awards.
``Sec. 149. Process of approval of national service positions.
``Subtitle E--National Civilian Community Corps
``Sec. 151. Purpose.
``Sec. 152. Establishment of National Civilian Community Corps Program.
``Sec. 153. National service program.
``Sec. 154. Summer national service program.
``Sec. 155. National Civilian Community Corps.
``Sec. 156. Training.
``Sec. 157. Service projects.
``Sec. 158. Authorized benefits for Corps members.
``Sec. 159. Administrative provisions.
``Sec. 160. Status of Corps members and Corps personnel under Federal
law.
``Sec. 161. Contract and grant authority.
``Sec. 162. Responsibilities of other departments.
``Sec. 163. Advisory board.
``Sec. 164. Annual evaluation.
``Sec. 166. Definitions.
``Subtitle F--Administrative Provisions
``Sec. 171. Family and medical leave.
``Sec. 172. Reports.
``Sec. 173. Supplementation.
``Sec. 174. Prohibition on use of funds.
``Sec. 175. Nondiscrimination.
``Sec. 176. Notice, hearing, and grievance procedures.
``Sec. 177. Nonduplication and nondisplacement.
``Sec. 178. State Commissions on National and Community Service.
``Sec. 179. Evaluation.
``Sec. 180. Engagement of participants.
``Sec. 181. Contingent extension.
``Sec. 182. Partnerships with schools.
``Sec. 183. Rights of access, examination, and copying.
``Sec. 184. Drug-free workplace requirements.
``Sec. 185. Consolidated application and reporting requirements.
``Sec. 186. Sustainability.
``Sec. 187. Use of recovered funds.
``Sec. 188. Expenses of attending meetings.
``Sec. 189. Grant periods.
``Sec. 189A. Generation of volunteers.
``Sec. 189B. Limitation on program grant costs.
``Sec. 189C. Audits and reports.
``Subtitle G--Corporation for National and Community Service
``Sec. 191. Corporation for National and Community Service.
``Sec. 192. Board of Directors.
``Sec. 192A. Authorities and duties of the Board of Directors.
``Sec. 193. Chief Executive Officer.
``Sec. 193A. Authorities and duties of the Chief Executive Officer.
``Sec. 194. Officers.
``Sec. 195. Employees, consultants, and other personnel.
``Sec. 196. Administration.
``Sec. 196A. Corporation State offices.
``Sec. 196B. Office of Outreach and Recruitment.
``Subtitle H--Investment for Quality and Innovation
``PART I--ADDITIONAL CORPORATION ACTIVITIES TO SUPPORT NATIONAL SERVICE
``Sec. 198. Additional corporation activities to support national
service.
``Sec. 198B. Presidential awards for service.
[[Page H1376]]
``PART II--INNOVATIVE AND MODEL PROGRAM SUPPORT
``Sec. 198D. Innovative and model program support.
``PART III--NATIONAL SERVICE PROGRAMS CLEARINGHOUSE
``Sec. 198E. National service programs clearinghouse.
``Subtitle I--American Conservation and Youth Corps
``Sec. 199. Short title.
``Sec. 199A. General authority.
``Sec. 199B. Limitation on purchase of capital equipment.
``Sec. 199C. State application.
``Sec. 199D. Focus of programs.
``Sec. 199E. Related programs.
``Sec. 199F. Public lands or Indian lands.
``Sec. 199G. Training and education services.
``Sec. 199H. Preference for certain projects.
``Sec. 199I. Age and citizenship criteria for enrollment.
``Sec. 199J. Use of volunteers.
``Sec. 199K. Living allowance.
``Sec. 199L. Joint programs.
``Sec. 199M. Federal and State employee status.
``Subtitle J--Training and Technical Assistance
``Sec. 199N. Training and technical assistance.
``TITLE II--MODIFICATIONS OF EXISTING PROGRAMS
``Subtitle A--Publication
``Sec. 201. Information for students.
``Sec. 202. Exit counseling for borrowers.
``Sec. 203. Department information on deferments and cancellations.
``Sec. 204. Data on deferments and cancellations.
``Subtitle B--Youthbuild Projects
``Sec. 211. Youthbuild projects.
``Subtitle C--Amendments to Student Literacy Corps
``Sec. 221. Amendments to Student Literacy Corps.
``TITLE IV--PROJECTS HONORING VICTIMS OF TERRORIST ATTACKS
``Sec. 401. Projects.
``TITLE V--AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
``Sec. 501. Authorization of appropriations.
``TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
``Sec. 601. Amtrak waste disposal.
``Sec. 602. Exchange program with countries in transition from
totalitarianism to Democracy.''.
SEC. 4102. TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THE DOMESTIC VOLUNTEER
SERVICE ACT OF 1973.
Section 1(b) of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973
(42 U.S.C. 4950 note) is amended to read as follows:
``(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this
Act is as follows:
``Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
``Sec. 2. Volunteerism policy.
``TITLE I--NATIONAL VOLUNTEER ANTIPOVERTY PROGRAMS
``Part A--Volunteers in Service to America
``Sec. 101. Statement of purpose.
``Sec. 102. Authority to operate VISTA program.
``Sec. 103. Selection and assignment of volunteers.
``Sec. 103A. VISTA programs of national significance.
``Sec. 104. Terms and periods of service.
``Sec. 105. Support service.
``Sec. 106. Participation of beneficiaries.
``Sec. 107. Participation of younger and older persons.
``Sec. 108. Limitation.
``Sec. 110. Applications for assistance.
``Part C--Special Volunteer Programs
``Sec. 121. Statement of purpose.
``Sec. 122. Authority to establish and operate special volunteer and
demonstration programs.
``Sec. 123. Financial assistance.
``TITLE II--NATIONAL SENIOR SERVICE CORPS
``Sec. 200. Statement of purpose.
``Part A--Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
``Sec. 201. Grants and contracts for volunteer service projects.
``Part B--Foster Grandparent Program
``Sec. 211. Grants and contracts for volunteer service projects.
``Part C--Senior Companion Program
``Sec. 213. Grants and contracts for volunteer service projects.
``Part D--General Provisions
``Sec. 221. Promotion of National Senior Service Corps.
``Sec. 222. Payments.
``Sec. 223. Minority group participation.
``Sec. 224. Use of locally generated contributions in National Senior
Service Corps.
``Sec. 225. Programs of national significance.
``Sec. 226. Adjustments to Federal financial assistance.
``Sec. 227. Multiyear grants or contracts.
``Sec. 228. Continuity of service.
``Sec. 229. Acceptance of donations.
``Part E--Demonstration Programs
``Sec. 231. Authority of Director.
``TITLE IV--ADMINISTRATION AND COORDINATION
``Sec. 403. Political activities.
``Sec. 404. Special limitations.
``Sec. 406. Labor standards.
``Sec. 408. Joint funding.
``Sec. 409. Prohibition of Federal control.
``Sec. 410. Coordination with other programs.
``Sec. 411. Prohibition.
``Sec. 414. Distribution of benefits between rural and urban areas.
``Sec. 415. Application of Federal law.
``Sec. 416. Evaluation.
``Sec. 417. Nondiscrimination provisions.
``Sec. 418. Eligibility for other benefits.
``Sec. 419. Legal expenses.
``Sec. 421. Definitions.
``Sec. 422. Audit.
``Sec. 423. Reduction of paperwork.
``Sec. 424. Review of project renewals.
``Sec. 425. Protection against improper use.
``Sec. 426. Center for Research and Training.
``TITLE V--AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
``Sec. 501. National volunteer antipoverty programs.
``Sec. 502. National Senior Service Corps.
``Sec. 504. Administration and coordination.
``Sec. 505. Availability of appropriations.
``TITLE VI--AMENDMENTS TO OTHER LAWS AND REPEALERS
``Sec. 601. Supersedence of Reorganization Plan No. 1 of July 1, 1971.
``Sec. 602. Creditable service for civil service retirement.
``Sec. 603. Repeal of title VIII of the Economic Opportunity Act.
``Sec. 604. Repeal of title VI of the Older Americans Act.''.
TITLE V--EFFECTIVE DATE
SEC. 5101. EFFECTIVE DATE.
Unless specifically provided otherwise, the amendments made
by this Act shall take effect on the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 5102. SERVICE ASSIGNMENTS AND AGREEMENTS.
(a) Service Assignments.--Changes pursuant to this Act in
the terms and conditions of terms of service and other
service assignments under the national service laws
(including the amount of the education award) shall apply
only to individuals who enroll or otherwise begin service
assignments after 90 days after the date of enactment of this
Act, except when agreed upon by all interested parties.
(b) Agreements.--Changes pursuant to this Act in the terms
and conditions of grants, contracts, or other agreements
under the national service laws shall apply only to such
agreements entered into after 90 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, except when agreed upon by the parties
to such agreements.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. No amendment to the committee amendment is in
order except those printed in House Report 110-539. Each amendment may
be offered only in the order printed in the report, by a Member
designated in the report, shall be considered read, shall be debatable
for the time specified in the report, equally divided and controlled by
the proponent and an opponent of the amendment, shall not be subject to
amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand for division of the
question.
Amendment No. 1 Offered By Mrs. McCarthy of New York
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 1
printed in House Report 110-539.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 1 offered by Mrs. McCarthy of New York:
Page 8, line 14, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 11, line 7, strike ``and''.
Page 11, after line 7, insert the following:
(10) in paragraph (28)(B) (as so redesignated)--
(A) by striking ``602'' and inserting ``602(3)''; and
(B) by striking ``1401'' and inserting ``1401(3)''; and
Page 11, line 8, redesignate (10) as (11).
Page 15, line 20, add ``and'' at the end.
Page 16, line 11, strike ``; and'' and insert a period.
Page 16, strike line 12 and all that follows through page
18, line 21.
Page 22, after line 22, insert the following:
``(d) Minimum Amount.--For any fiscal year for which
amounts appropriated for this part exceed $43,000,000, the
minimum allotment to each State (as defined in section 101)
under this section shall be $65,000.''.
Page 22, line 25, through page 23, line 1, strike ``or an
allotment of approved summer of service positions under
section 111(a)(5)(D)''.
Page 23, after line 14, insert the following:
``(2) information about the criteria the State educational
agency, Territory, or Indian tribe will use to evaluate and
grant approval to applications submitted under subsection
(c), including an assurance that the State educational
agency, Territory, or Indian tribe will comply with the
requirement in section 114(a);''.
Page 23, line 15, redesignate (2) as (3).
Page 24, line 11, redesignate (3) as (4).
Page 25, line 15, add ``and'' at the end.
Page 25, line 17, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 26, strike lines 5 through 11.
Page 26, on each of lines 20, 22, and 23, strike ``State''
and insert ``State, Territory, or Indian tribe''.
[[Page H1377]]
Page 27, line 1, strike ``State'' and insert ``State,
Territory, or Indian tribe''.
Page 28, strike lines 12 through 15 and insert the
following:
``(1) In general.--The Federal share of the cost of
carrying out a program for which assistance is provided under
this part--
``(A) for new grants, may not exceed 80 percent of the
total cost for the first year of the grant, 65 percent for
the second year, and 50 percent for each remaining year; and
``(B) for continuing grants, may not exceed 50 percent of
the total cost of the program.''.
Page 31, line 19, strike ``and'' the first place such term
appears.
Page 31, line 20, insert before the period at the end the
following: ``, and community colleges serving predominantly
minority populations''.
Page 31, line 24, through page 32, line 1, strike ``a grant
is made'' and insert ``assistance is provided''.
Page 36, lines 18 through 19, strike ``a public or private
nonprofit organization,'' and insert ``or a public or private
nonprofit organization (including grant-making entities), a
public or private elementary or secondary school, a local
educational agency,''.
Page 37, line 2, insert a comma after ``post-secondary''.
Page 37, lines 16 through 17, strike ``senior centers and
communities, schools, libraries, and other'' and insert ``in
senior centers and communities, in schools, in libraries, and
in other''.
Page 38, line 6, strike ``and''.
Page 38, after line 6, insert the following:
``(8) establish or implement summer of service programs
during the summer months, including the cost of recruitment,
training, and placement of service-learning coordinators--
``(A) for youth who will be enrolled in any grade from
grade 6 through grade 12 at the end of the summer concerned;
``(B) for community-based service-learning projects that--
``(i) shall--
``(I) meet unmet human, educational, environmental
(including energy conservation and stewardship), emergency
and disaster preparedness, and public service needs; and
``(II) be intensive, structured, supervised, and designed
to produce identifiable improvements to the community; and
``(ii) may include the extension of academic year service-
learning programs into the summer months;
``(C) under which any student who completes 100 hours of
service in an approved summer of service position, as
certified through a process determined by the Corporation
through regulations consistent with section 138(f), shall be
eligible for a summer of service educational award of not
more than $500 (or, at the discretion of the Chief Executive
Officer, not more than $1,000 in the case of a participant
who is economically disadvantaged) from funds deposited in
the National Service Trust and distributed by the Corporation
as described in section 148; and
``(D) subject to the limitation that a student may not
receive more than 2 summer of service educational awards from
funds deposited in the National Service Trust; and''.
Page 38, line 7, redesignate (8) as (9).
Page 40, lines 12 through 13, strike ``50 percent of the
total cost of the program'' and insert ``75 percent of the
total cost of the program in the first year of the grant and
50 percent of the total cost of the program in the remaining
years of the grant, including if the grant is extended for a
fourth year''.
Page 42, strike lines 24 through 25 and insert the
following:
(ii) by striking ``Federal share of the cost'' and
inserting ``Corporation share of the cost, including member
living allowances, employment-related taxes, health care
coverage, and worker's compensation and other necessary
operation costs,'';
Page 43, strike lines 1 through 4.
Page 43, lines 5 and 8, redesignate (iv) and (v) as (iii)
and (iv), respectively.
Page 45, line 11, strike ``to the Congress'' and insert
``to the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate''.
Page 49, line 6, insert after ``services'' the following:
``, provision of supportive services to direct mentoring
service organizations (in the case of a partnership), or''.
Page 53, strike lines 13 through 16 and insert the
following:
``(2) Matching requirement.--In making grants to a State
under this subsection, the Corporation shall require the
State to provide matching funds of $1 from non-Federal
sources for every $1 provided by the Corporation.
``(3) Alternative.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the
Chief Executive Officer may permit a State that demonstrates
hardship or a new State Commission to use an alternative
match as follows:''.
Page 57, line 14, before the period at the end insert ``,
or 0.5 percent of the amount allocated for the State formula
under this section, whichever is greater''.
Page 62, after line 11, insert the following:
``SEC. 129B. PILOT AUTHORITY FOR MEMBER-SELECTED NATIONAL
SERVICE POSITIONS.
``(a) Authority.--
``(1) In general.--From the amounts appropriated for a
fiscal year under this subtitle and consistent with the
restriction in subsection (b), the Corporation may provide
fixed amount grants on a competitive basis to up to 10 State
Commissions to support member-selected approved national
service positions.
``(2) Limitation.--The Corporation shall award grants under
paragraph (1) to support not more than 500 approved national
service positions among the participating States.
``(b) Limits on Corporation Grant Funds.--
``(1) In general.--Grants awarded under subsection (a)(1)
shall not exceed $600 per individual enrolled in an approved
national service position under this section.
``(2) Use of grant funds.--Grants received by State
Commissions under subsection (a)(1)--
``(A) shall not be distributed to organizations receiving
participants with approved national service positions under
this section; and
``(B) may--
``(i) be used for oversight activities and mechanisms for
the service sites as determined by the State Commission or
the Corporation, which may include site visits;
``(ii) be used for activities to augment the experience of
AmeriCorps participants in approved national service
positions under this section, including activities to engage
such participants in networking opportunities with other
AmeriCorps participants; and
``(iii) be used for recruitment or training activities for
participants in approved national service positions under
this section.
``(c) State Commission Application.--
``(1) In general.--A State Commission desiring to receive a
grant under subsection (a)(1) shall submit an application to
the Corporation at such time, in such manner, and containing
such information as the Corporation shall determine
appropriate.
``(2) Approval.--The Corporation shall approve each
application under paragraph (1) in accordance with section
130(d).
``(d) Selection of Participants.--
``(1) Applicants.--Participants desiring to receive an
approved national service position under this section shall
submit an application to the State Commission at such time
and in such manner as the State Commission determines
appropriate. The application shall contain--
``(A) a position description that includes--
``(i) the unmet human, educational, public safety, or
environmental need or needs that will be met by the
participant; and
``(ii) a description of the activities and responsibilities
that will be carried out by the participant;
``(B) a description of the organization operating the
service site where the applicant intends to complete the
service described in subparagraph (A);
``(C) a description of the support that will be provided by
the organization to the participant to complete the
activities described in subparagraph (A);
``(D) the evidence of community support for the activities
described in subparagraph (A);
``(E) a certification from the organization operating the
service site that the organization is accepting the
participant to perform the service outlined in subparagraph
(A);
``(F) a certification from the organization operating the
service site that the organization satisfies qualification
criteria established by the Corporation or the State
Commission, including standards relating to organizational
capacity, financial management, and programmatic oversight;
and
``(G) any other information that the Corporation and the
State Commission deems necessary.
``(2) Residency.--A participant may apply for approved
national service positions under this section in States other
than the State in which the participant resides.
``(e) Organization Requirements.--The Corporation and the
State Commissions shall ensure that the organizations
receiving participants with approved national service
positions under this section--
``(1) maintain not more than 5 full-time staff and not more
than 5 part-time staff; and
``(2) are not duplicating service provided by an existing
AmeriCorps grantee in the same community; and
``(3) are located in a community where no Intermediary
AmeriCorps grants recipient is operating; and
``(4) have not applied to receive assistance under this
subtitle.
``(f) Failure to Comply.--If an organization receiving a
participant with an approved national service position under
this section fails to comply with terms and conditions
established by the State Commission and the Corporation--
``(1) the organization shall not be eligible to receive
such a participant, or receive an AmeriCorps grant under
section 121, for not less than 5 years; and
``(2) the State Commission shall have the right to remove
such a participant from the organization and relocate that
individual to another site.
``(g) Receipt of Financial Assistance.--An organization
that receives participants with approved national service
positions under this section shall not be considered a
recipient of Federal financial assistance based on receiving
such participants.
``(h) Definition.--For the purpose of this section, the
term `Intermediary AmeriCorps grants recipient' means any
organization that serves as a conduit between the Corporation
and other unaffiliated organizations operating service sites.
Page 72, line 11, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
[[Page H1378]]
Page 72, strike line 15 and all that follows through page
73, line 3 and insert the following:
SEC. 1403. DETERMINATION OF THE AMOUNT OF NATIONAL SERVICE
EDUCATIONAL AWARDS.
Section 147 (42 U.S.C. 12603) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``a value, for each of not more than 2 of
such terms of service, equal to 90 percent of--'' and
inserting ``a value of--'' ; and
(B) by striking paragraphs (1) and (2) and inserting the
following:
``(1) $4,825, for fiscal year 2008;
``(2) $4,925, for fiscal year 2009;
``(3) $5,025, for fiscal year 2010;
``(4) $5,125, for fiscal year 2011; and
``(5) $5,225, for fiscal year 2012 and each fiscal year
thereafter.''; and
(2) in subsection (b), by inserting after ``for each of not
more than 2 of such terms of service'' the following: ``in
the period of one year''.
Page 73, line 20, strike ``111(a)(5)(D)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)(C)''.
Page 74, line 4, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 75, line 16, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 76, line 2, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 77, line 2, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 78, line 16, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 80, line 2, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 82, line 5, strike ``to Congress'' and insert ``to the
Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate''.
Page 83, line 8, strike ``111(a)(5)'' and insert
``118(c)(8)''.
Page 87, line 17, strike ``The Director'' and all that
follows through ``goal.'' on line 24 and insert ``The
Director shall take appropriate steps, including through
collaboration with the Office of Outreach and Recruitment, to
increase the percentage of participants in the program who
are disadvantaged youth toward 50 percent of all participants
by year 2010. The Director shall report to the Committee on
Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the
Senate annually on such efforts, any challenges faced, and
the annual participation rates of disadvantaged youth in the
program.''.
Page 88, lines 6 through 7, strike ``Demonstration''.
Page 88, lines 24 through 25, strike ``Demonstration''.
Page 92, line 1, strike ``striking by''.
Page 93, strike lines 17 through 22 and insert the
following:
(3) by amending subsection (c)(2) to read as follows:
``(2) Coordination with other entities.--Members of the
cadre may provide, either directly or through grants,
contracts, or cooperative agreements, the advanced service
training referred to in subsection (b)(1) in coordination
with vocational or technical schools, other employment and
training providers, existing youth service programs, other
qualified individuals, or organizations with expertise in
training youth, including disadvantaged youth, in the skill
areas described in such subsection.''.
Page 94, line 8, after ``conservation'' insert a comma.
Page 97, strike lines 19 through 21 and insert the
following:
(iii) in subparagraph (C)--
(I) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking ``the
Director'' and inserting ``the Chief Executive Officer'';
(II) in clause (iii) by striking ``and'' at the end;
(III) by redesignating clause (iv) as (v); and
(IV) by inserting after clause (iii) the following:
``(iv) give consideration to retired and other former law
enforcement, fire, rescue, and emergency personnel, and other
individuals with backgrounds in disaster preparedness,
relief, and recovery; and''; and
Page 98, line 22, add ``and'' at the end.
Page 103, strike lines 24 through 25.
Page 104, lines 1 and 4, redesignate (2) and (3) as (1) and
(2), respectively.
Page 107, line 24, strike ``(g) through (k)'' and insert
``(h) through (l)''.
Page 108, after line 10, insert the following:
``(g) State Plan for Baby Boomer and Older Adult Volunteer
and Paid Service.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
this section, to be eligible to receive a grant or allotment
under subtitle B or C or to receive a distribution of
approved national service positions under subtitle C, a State
must work with appropriate State agencies and private
entities to develop a comprehensive State plan for volunteer
and paid service by members of the Baby Boom generation and
older adults.
``(2) Matters included.--The State plan shall include--
``(A) recommendations for public policy initiatives,
including how to best tap the population of members of the
Baby Boom generation and older adults as sources of social
capital and as ways to address community needs;
``(B) recommendations to the State unit on aging on--
``(i) a marketing outreach plan to businesses;
``(ii) outreach to non-profit organizations;
``(iii) the State's Department of Education; and
``(iv) other State agencies; and
``(C) recommendations for civic engagement and
multigenerational activities, such as--
``(i) early childhood education, family literacy, and after
school programs;
``(ii) respite services for older adults and caregivers;
and
``(iii) transitions for members of the Baby Boom generation
and older adults to purposeful work in their post career
lives.
``(3) Knowledge incorporated.--The State plan shall
incorporate the current knowledge base regarding--
``(A) the economic impact of older workers' roles in the
economy;
``(B) the social impact of older workers' roles in the
community; and
``(C) the health and social benefits of active engagement
for members of the Baby Boom generation and older adults.
``(4) Publication.--The State plan must be made public and
be transmitted to the Chief Executive Officer.''; and
Page 108, line 11, strike ``(j)(1)'' and insert ``(k)(1)''.
Page 108, line 13, strike ``; and'' and insert a period.
Page 108, strike line 14 and all that follows through page
110, line 13.
Page 110, line 23, strike ``various''.
Page 111, line 5, strike ``grantees'' and insert ``each
grantee''.
Page 112, line 12, strike ``to which'' and insert ``with
which''.
Page 112, line 13, insert a comma after ``services''.
Page 112, line 14, strike ``of the program and its impact,
for such programs'' and insert ``and the impact of such
programs''.
Page 113, line 6, insert ``under this section'' before the
period at the end.
Page 114, line 25, strike ``Congress'' and insert ``the
Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate''.
Page 115, line 20, strike ``Congress and the committees of
jurisdiction'' and insert ``the Committee on Education and
Labor of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate''.
Page 117, line 5, strike ``Congress'' and insert ``the
Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate''.
Page 118, line 1, strike ``to work to''.
Page 118, line 2, insert ``, taking into consideration
challenges that programs in underserved rural or urban areas
may face'' before the semicolon.
Page 118, line 3, strike ``assist'' and insert ``aid''.
Page 118, line 5, after ``acquiring'' insert ``and
leveraging''.
Page 118, lines 5 through 7, strike ``that could replace
assistance received under the national service laws''.
Page 122, line 25, strike ``to Congress'' and insert ``to
the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate''.
Page 124, line 11, strike ``to Congress'' and insert ``to
the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate''.
Page 126, line 22, strike the period at the end and insert
``; and''.
Page 126, after line 22, insert the following:
(3) by amending subsection (g) to read as follows:
``(g) Recruitment and Public Awareness Functions.--The
Chief Executive Officer shall assign or hire, as necessary,
such additional national, regional, and State personnel to
carry out such recruiting and public awareness functions of
the Office of Outreach and Recruitment to ensure that such
functions are carried out in a timely and effective manner.
The Chief Executive Officer shall give priority in the hiring
of such additional personnel to individuals who have formerly
served as volunteers in the programs carried out under the
national service laws or similar programs, and to individuals
who have specialized experience in the recruitment of
volunteers.''.
Page 129, line 25, after ``local education agencies,''
insert ``institutions of higher education,''.
Page 130, after line 7, insert the following:
``(3) to collaborate with organizations with demonstrated
expertise in supporting and accommodating individuals with
disabilities, including institutions of higher education, to
identify and implement methods of recruitment to increase the
number of participants with disabilities in the programs
receiving assistance under the national service laws;''.
Page 130, lines 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24, redesignate (3)
through (7) as (4) through (8), respectively.
Page 131, lines 4, 7, and 9, redesignate (8) through (10)
as (9) through (11), respectively.
Page 132, strike line 9 and all that follows through page
133, line 19, and insert the following:
SEC. 1707. STUDY TO EXAMINE AND INCREASE SERVICE PROGRAMS FOR
VETERANS AND VETERANS PARTICIPATION IN PROGRAMS
UNDER THE NATIONAL SERVICE LAWS AND TO DEVELOP
PILOT PROGRAM.
Subtitle G of title I is further amended by adding at the
end the following:
[[Page H1379]]
``SEC. 196C. STUDY TO EXAMINE AND INCREASE SERVICE PROGRAMS
FOR VETERANS AND VETERANS PARTICIPATION IN
PROGRAMS UNDER THE NATIONAL SERVICE LAWS AND TO
DEVELOP PILOT PROGRAM.
``(a) Planning Study.--The Corporation for National and
Community Service shall conduct a study to identify--
``(1) specific areas of need for veterans;
``(2) how existing programs and activities carried out
under the national service laws could better serve veterans
and veterans service organizations;
``(3) gaps in service to veterans;
``(4) prospects for better coordination of services;
``(5) prospects for better utilization of veterans as
resources and volunteers; and
``(6) methods for ensuring the efficient financial
organization of services directed towards veterans.
``(b) Consultation.--The study shall be carried out in
consultation with veterans' service organizations, the
Department of Veterans Affairs, State veterans agencies, the
Department of Defense, and other individuals and entities the
Corporation considers appropriate.
``(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the
enactment of this section, the Corporation shall submit to
the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report on the results of
the planning study required by subsection (a), together with
a plan for implementation of a pilot program using promising
strategies and approaches for better targeting and serving
veterans.
``(d) Pilot Program.--From amounts made available to carry
out this section, the Corporation shall develop and carry out
a pilot program based on the findings in the report submitted
under subsection (c).
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such
sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2008
through 2012.''.
Page 134, line 23, strike ``subsections (p) and (q);'' and
insert ``subsection (p); and''.
Page 134, strike line 24 and all that follows through page
135, line 2, and insert the following:
(10) by redesignating subsections (q), (r), and (s) as (g),
(h), and (i), respectively.
Page 138, after line 6, insert the following:
``(5) Silver scholarship programs.--A Silver Scholarship
program for citizens age 55 and older to complete no less
than 600 hours of service in a year meeting unmet human,
educational, public safety, or environmental needs and
receive a $1000 education award, provided that--
``(A) the Corporation establishes criteria for the types of
the service required to be performed to receive such award;
and
``(B) the citizen uses such award in accordance with
sections 146(c), 146(d), and 148(c).''.
Page 138, lines 7 and 21, redesignate (5) and (6) as (6)
and (7), respectively.
Page 139, line 3, redesignate (7) as (8).
Page 139, after line 13, insert the following:
``(2) Matching funds.--
``(A) In general.--The Federal share of the cost of
carrying out a program for which a grant is made under this
part may not exceed 76 percent of the total cost of the
program in the first year and may not exceed 50 percent of
the total cost of the program for the remaining years of the
grant, including if the grant is extended for 1 year.
``(B) Non-federal contribution.--In providing for the
remaining share of the cost of carrying out such a program,
each recipient of a grant under this part--
``(i) shall provide for such share through a payment in
cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including facilities,
equipment, or services; and
``(ii) may provide for such share through State sources or
local sources, including private funds or donated
services.''.
Page 139, line 14, redesignate (2) as (3).
Page 139, line 14, strike ``Encouragement'' and insert
``Collaboration encouraged''.
Page 139, line 18, redesignate (3) as (4).
Page 139, line 23, after ``strategies'' insert a comma.
Page 140, strike line 19 and all that follows through page
141, line 9.
Page 141, lines 13 through 14, strike ``the Corporation
requires, and in such manner as''.
Page 147, line 5, strike the semicolon and insert the
following: ``. Such activities may utilize funding from the
reservation of funds to increase the participation of
individuals with disabilities as described in section
129(k);''.
Page 147, line 12, insert before the semicolon the
following: ``, including providing such training and
technical assistance to programs receiving assistance under
section 201 of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973''.
Page 148, line 24, strike ``2008,'' and all that follows
through the semicolon on page 149, line 4, and insert
``2008;''.
Page 149, line 10, strike ``63.75'' and insert ``60''.
Page 149, line 16, strike ``11.25'' and insert ``15''.
Page 149, after line 18, insert the following:
``(C) Summer of service.--Of the amount appropriated under
subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year, up to $10,000,000 shall
be for summer of service grants and up to $10,000,000 shall
be deposited in the National Service Trust to support summer
of service educational awards, consistent with section
118(c)(8).''.
Page 151, after line 3, insert the following:
``(D) Priority.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
this Act, in obligating the amounts made available pursuant
to the authorization of appropriations in subparagraph (C),
priority shall be given to programs carried out in areas for
which the President has declared the existence of a major
disaster, in accordance with section 401 of the Robert T.
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42
U.S.C. 5170), as a consequence of Hurricanes Katrina and
Rita.''.
Page 156, line 17, strike ``recruitment and''.
Page 156, after line 19, insert the following:
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) strike ``related to the recruitment and'' and insert
``related to the'';
(II) strike ``in conjunction with the recruitment and'' and
insert ``in conjunction with the''; and
(III) strike ``1993. Upon'' and all that follows through
the period at the end and insert ``1993.'';
Page 156, lines 20 and 24, redesignate (i) and (ii) as (ii)
and (iii), respectively.
Page 160, after line 17, insert the following:
``(1) In the re-entry and re-integration of formerly
incarcerated youth and adults into society, including life
skills training, employment training, counseling, educational
training, and educational counseling.''.
Page 160, lines 18 and 23, redesignate (1) and (2) as (2)
and (3), respectively.
Page 161, lines 7, 12, and 18, redesignate (3), (4), and
(5) as (4), (5), and (6), respectively.
Page 169, strike line 5 and all that follows through page
170, line 11, and insert the following:
``(e) Competitive Grant Awards Required.--
``(1) In general.--Effective for fiscal year 2013 and each
fiscal year thereafter, each grant or contract awarded under
this section in such a year shall be--
``(A) awarded for a period of 3 years; and
``(B) awarded through a competitive process.
``(2) Elements of competitive process.--The competitive
process required by paragraph (1)(B)--
``(A) shall include the use of a peer review panel,
including members with expertise in senior service and aging;
``(B) shall ensure that--
``(i) the resulting grants (or contracts) support no less
than the volunteer service years of the previous grant (or
contract) cycle in a given geographic service area;
``(ii) the resulting grants (or contracts) maintain a
similar program distribution; and
``(iii) every effort is made to minimize the disruption to
volunteers; and
``(C) shall include the performance measures, outcomes, and
other criteria established under subsection (f).
``(3) Establishment of competitive process.--The
Corporation shall establish and make available the
competitive process required by paragraph (1)(B) no later
than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this
subsection. The Corporation shall consult with the program
directors of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program during
development and implementation of the competitive process.
``(f) Evaluation Process Required.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 412, and
effective beginning 180 days after the date of the enactment
of this subsection, each grant or contract under this section
that expires in fiscal year 2010, 2011, and 2012 shall be
subject to an evaluation process. The evaluation process
shall be carried out, to the maximum extent practicable, in
fiscal year 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively.
``(2) Elements of evaluation process.--The evaluation
process required by paragraph (1)--
``(A) shall include performance measures, outcomes, and
other criteria; and
``(B) shall evaluate the extent to which the recipient of
the grant or contract meets or exceeds such performance
measures, outcomes, and other criteria.
``(3) Establishment of evaluation process.--The Corporation
shall, in collaboration and consultation with program
directors of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, establish
and make available the evaluation process required by
paragraph (1), including the performance measures, outcomes,
and other criteria required by paragraph (2)(A), with
particular attention to the different needs of rural and
urban programs. The processes shall be established and made
available, including notification of the available training
and technical assistance, no later than 180 days after the
date of the enactment of this subsection.
``(4) Effect of failing to meet performance measures.--If
the evaluation process determines that the recipient has
failed to meet or exceed the performance measures, outcomes,
and other criteria established under this subsection, the
grant or contract shall not be renewed. Any successor grant
or contract shall be awarded through the competitive process
described in subsection (e)(1).
``(5) Special rule.--The Corporation may continue to fund a
program which has failed to meet or exceed the performance
measures, outcomes, and other criteria established under this
subsection for up to 12 months if competition does not result
in a successor grant or contract for such program, in order
to minimize the disruption to volunteers and
[[Page H1380]]
disruption of services. In such a case, outreach shall be
conducted and a new competition shall be established. The
previous recipient shall remain eligible for the new
competition.
``(6) Performance measures.--
``(A) In general.--The performance measures, outcomes, and
other criteria established under this subsection may be
updated or modified as necessary, in consultation with
program directors for the Retired Senior Volunteer Program,
but no earlier than fiscal year 2013.
``(B) Operational problems.--Effective for fiscal years
before fiscal year 2013, the Corporation may, after
consulting with program directors of the Retired Senior
Volunteer Program, determine that a performance measure,
outcome, or criterion established under this subsection is
operationally problematic, and may, in consultation with
program directors of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and
after notifying the Committee on Education and Labor of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate--
``(i) eliminate the use of that performance measure,
outcome, or criterion; or
``(ii) modify that performance measure, outcome, or
criterion as necessary to render it no longer operationally
problematic.
``(g) Online Resource Guide.--The Corporation shall develop
and disseminate an online resource guide for the Retired
Senior Volunteer Program within 180 days after the date of
the enactment of this subsection, which shall include, but
not be limited to--
``(1) examples of high performing programs;
``(2) corrective actions for underperforming programs; and
``(3) examples of meaningful outcome-based performance
measures that capture a program's mission and priorities.
``(h) Report to Congress.--The Corporation shall submit, by
2012, to the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report on--
``(1) the number of programs that did not meet or exceed
the established performance measures, outcomes, and other
criteria established under subsection (f);
``(2) the number of new grants awarded;
``(3) the challenges to the implementation of evaluation
and competition, including but not limited to geographic
distribution and the minimization of disruption to
volunteers; and
``(4) how the current program geographic distribution
affects recruitment for the Retired Senior Volunteer
Program.''.
Page 176, line 18, strike ``family management skills'' and
all that follows through ``children'' on line 23 and insert
``and family management skills''.
Page 180, strike line 8 and all that follows through page
181, line 19, and insert the following:
SEC. 2210. AUTHORITY OF DIRECTOR.
Section 231 (42 U.S.C. 5028) is amended--
(1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) In General.--
``(1) Activities authorized.--The Director is authorized
to--
``(A) make grants to or enter into contracts with public or
nonprofit organizations, including organizations funded under
part A, B, or C, for the purposes of demonstrating innovative
activities involving older Americans as volunteers; and
``(B) make incentive grants under subsection (d).
``(2) Support of volunteers.--The Director may support
under this part both volunteers receiving stipends and
volunteers not receiving stipends.'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``subsection (a)'' and inserting ``subsection (a)(1)(A)'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by striking ``activities;'' and
inserting ``activities described in section 225(b) and
carried out through programs described in parts A, B, and
C;''; and
(C) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) and inserting the
following:
``(2) programs that support older Americans in aging in
place while augmenting the capacity of members of a community
to serve each other through reciprocal service centers,
service credit banking, community economic scripts, barter
services, timebanking, and other similar programs where
services are exchanged and not paid for; or
``(3) grants to non-profit organizations to establish sites
or programs to--
``(A) assist retiring or retired individuals in locating
opportunities for--
``(i) public service roles, including through paid or
volunteer service;
``(ii) participating in life-planning programs, including
financial planning and issues revolving around health and
wellness; and
``(iii) continuing education, including leadership
development, health and wellness, and technological literacy;
and
``(B) connect retiring or retired individuals with members
of the community to serve as leaders and mentors in life
planning, relationships, employment counseling, education
counseling, and other areas of expertise as developed by the
retiring or retired adults.''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Priority.--For purposes of subsection (b)(2),
priority shall be given to--
``(1) programs with established experience in carrying out
such a program and engaging the entire community in service
exchange;
``(2) programs with the capacity to connect to similar
programs throughout a city or region to augment the available
services to older Americans and for members of the community
to serve each other;
``(3) programs seeking to establish in an area where needs
of older Americans are left unmet and older Americans are
unable to consider aging in place without such service
exchange in place; and
``(4) programs that integrate participants in or
collaborate with service-learning programs, AmeriCorps State
and National programs, the VISTA program, the Retired and
Senior Volunteer Program, Foster Grandparents program, and
the Senior Companion programs, and programs described in
section 411 of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C.
3032).
``(d) Incentive Grants.--The incentive grants referred to
in subsection (a)(1)(B) are incentive grants to programs
receiving assistance under this title, subject to the
following:
``(1) Such grants (which may be fixed-amount grants) shall
be grants in an amount equal to $300 per volunteer enrolled
in the program, except that such amount shall be reduced as
necessary to meet the goals of this section.
``(2) Such a grant shall be awarded to a program only if
the program--
``(A) exceeds performance measures established under
section 179 of the National and Community Service Act of
1990;
``(B) provides non-Federal matching funds in an amount that
is not less than 50 percent of the amount received by the
program under this title;
``(C) enrolls more than 50 percent of the volunteers in
outcome-based service programs with measurable objectives
meeting community needs, as determined by the Corporation;
and
``(D) enrolls more volunteers from among members of the
Baby Boom generation, as defined in section 101 of the
National and Community Service Act of 1990, than were
enrolled in the program during the previous fiscal year.
``(3) For each such grant, the Corporation shall require
the recipient to provide matching funds of 70 cents from non-
Federal sources for every $1 provided under the grant.
``(4) Such a grant shall be awarded to a program only if
the program submits, at such time and in such manner as the
Corporation may reasonably require, an application that
contains--
``(A) a demonstration that the program has met the
requirements of paragraph (2);
``(B) if applicable, a plan for innovative programs as
described in paragraph (6)(B)(ii);
``(C) a sustainability plan that describes how the program
will maintain the activities described in paragraph (6) when
the grant terminates; and
``(D) other information that the Corporation may require.
``(5) Such grants shall be awarded for a period of 3 years,
except that the grant shall be reviewed by the Corporation at
the end of the first and second fiscal years and revoked if
the Corporation finds that the program has failed to continue
to meet the requirements of paragraph (2) for those fiscal
years.
``(6) Such grants--
``(A) shall be used to increase the number of volunteers in
outcome-based service with measurable objectives meeting
community needs as determined by the Corporation; and
``(B) may be used--
``(i) for activities for which the program is authorized to
receive assistance under this title; and
``(ii) for innovative programs focused on the Baby Boom
generation, as defined in section 101 of the National and
Community Service Act of 1990, that have been accepted by the
Corporation through the application process in paragraph (4)
and are outcome-based programs with measurable objectives
meeting community needs as determined by the Corporation.
``(7) The Director shall, in making such grants, give high
priority to programs receiving assistance under section
201.''.
Page 191, after line 19, insert the following:
(c) Exception.--Subsections (a) and (b) do not apply to the
amendments made by this Act to section 201 of the Domestic
Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 5001). Any changes
pursuant to those amendments apply as specified in those
amendments.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the
gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy) and a Member opposed each
will control 5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from New York.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise to speak to the
manager's amendment to H.R. 2857, Generations Invigorating Volunteerism
and Education Act, the GIVE Act.
As chairwoman of the Healthy Families and Communities Subcommittee, I
am pleased to offer a bipartisan manager's amendment to H.R. 2857. I am
also pleased to say that the administration and the service community
support the GIVE Act.
I would like to again thank Chairman Miller for his continued support
[[Page H1381]]
and work on this reauthorization. I would also like to extend my thanks
to the ranking member of our committee, Mr. McKeon, for his work.
Finally, I would like to thank the ranking member of my subcommittee,
Mr. Platts, for his work on this reauthorization.
I also would like to thank the staff who have worked many hours on
the bill. For the majority, Deborah Koolbeck, Denise Forte, and
Alexander Ceja, and for the minority, Brad Thomas and Susan Ross.
This amendment increases the ability of the Corporation for National
and Community Service to tap into the pool of potential volunteers,
which gives us a better opportunity to meet challenges facing our
Nation's communities today.
Some of the changes in the manager's amendment include: the amendment
improves the reach and capacity of the Summer of Service. This program
is aimed to increase civil responsibility and community service among
5th-12th graders through summer service-learning programs. Getting
younger kids involved in service is a good investment. Studies show
that the earlier we get folks involved in the volunteer service the
more likely they will stay in for their lifetime.
We have improved the National Civilian Conservation Corps, or the
NCCC. This valuable program has a focus on disaster preparation. NCCC
and volunteers have helped during disasters like Katrina. Because of
the disaster focus, there is a need for supervisors and training
instructors with a background in law enforcement, rescue and emergency
and disaster preparedness. The amendment allows retired law
enforcement, fire and rescue personnel to be part of the management of
the NCCC.
My amendment makes the Retired Senior Volunteer Program a competitive
grant program by 2013. I believe competition spurs innovation, and this
will strengthen the program.
Also included in this amendment are incentive grants for the Senior
Corps program. These grants are designed to bolster the capacity of
current exceptional Senior Corps programs.
Given that the RSVP program is becoming a competitive process, it is
expected that the RSVP programs which meet the eligibility requirements
will be a majority of incentive grant applicants and recipients.
Finally, I have also worked with Mr. Altmire, Mr. Sestak, and Mr.
Souder and have included changes that they suggested in the manager's
amendment. I want to thank them for their great ideas.
Our national service laws were last authorized 15 years ago. We have
worked with our colleagues across the aisle and with the service
community to renew the spirit of service in our Nation through the GIVE
Act.
I hope you will join me and support my amendment.
Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I claim time in opposition to the amendment
although I am not opposed to the amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentleman from
Pennsylvania is recognized for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mr. PLATTS. I want to commend the ranking member for offering this
manager's amendment which makes several very important changes to the
GIVE Act.
Most importantly, this amendment includes the language that would
allow the Corporation for National and Community Service to support
individuals who fill national service positions in small organizations
that do not receive AmeriCorps grants.
This language was originally proposed by Mr. Souder in committee, and
the manager's amendment reflects the bipartisan approach and the
bipartisan compromise that was reached to infuse more individual
control and local flexibility into the national service programs.
Also, I would like to reference that this amendment injects fair
competition into the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program by requiring
all programs to be competitively reevaluated by fiscal year 2013. For
too long, these programs have continued to receive funding without any
effort to determine if those programs are successfully making a
difference in their communities, and this amendment will ensure that
this is no longer the case.
So, I urge a ``yes'' vote in support of the amendment.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of
my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy).
The amendment was agreed to.
Amendment No. 2 Offered By Mr. McKeon
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 2
printed in House Report 110-539.
Mr. McKEON. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 2 offered by Mr. McKeon:
Page 50, strike lines 21 through 23 and insert the
following:
(5) in subsection (d) (as so redesignated), in paragraph
(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``subsection (b) or
(d) of''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(C) Priority for veterans.--Priorities established under
subparagraphs (A) and (B) shall include priorities for
programs that--
``(i) recruit veterans, particularly returning veterans,
into service opportunities;
``(ii) promote community-based efforts to meet the unique
needs of military families while a member of the family is
deployed; and
``(iii) promote community-based efforts to meet the unique
needs of military families when a member of the family
returns from a deployment.''; and
Page 64, strike line 23 and all that follows through page
65, line 10, and insert the following:
(3) in subsection (d), in paragraph (2)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), strike ``the
Corporation may include--'' and insert ``the Corporation--'';
and
(B) by striking subparagraphs (A) through (G) and inserting
the following:
``(A) shall include national service programs that--
``(i) recruit veterans, particularly returning veterans,
into service opportunities;
``(ii) promote community-based efforts to meet the unique
needs of military families while a member of the family is
deployed; and
``(iii) promote community-based efforts to meet the unique
needs of military families when a member of the family
returns from a deployment; and
``(B) may include--
``(i) national service programs that conform to the
national service priorities in effect under section 122(d);
``(ii) innovative national service programs;
``(iii) national service programs that are well established
in one or more States at the time of the application and are
proposed to be expanded to additional States using assistance
provided under section 121;
``(iv) grant programs in support of other national service
programs if the grant programs are to be conducted by
nonprofit organizations with a demonstrated and extensive
expertise in the provision of services to meet human,
educational, environmental, or public safety needs; and
``(v) professional corps programs described in section
122(a)(8).''.
Page 85, after line 3, insert the following new section:
SEC. 1406. REPORT ON VETERANS SERVING IN APPROVED NATIONAL
SERVICE POSITIONS.
Subtitle D of title I (42 U.S.C. 12601 et seq.) is further
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 150. REPORT ON VETERANS SERVING IN APPROVED NATIONAL
SERVICE POSITIONS.
``(a) In General.--The Corporation shall report annually to
the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate the number and percentage
of veterans serving in approved national service positions.
``(b) Annual Goals.--In the report described in subsection
(a), the Corporation shall outline strategies and goals for
increasing the number and percentage of veterans serving in
approved national service positions each year, including
strategies being undertaken to recruit veterans to serve in
such positions, and include an evaluation of progress in
meeting such goals.''.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the gentleman
from California (Mr. McKeon) and a Member opposed each will control 5
minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from California.
Mr. McKEON. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I might
consume.
Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this amendment which will enhance
the GIVE Act by codifying our commitment to ensuring veterans can serve
and be served within our national service programs.
[[Page H1382]]
The purpose of my amendment is to acknowledge the patriotism,
commitment, and sacrifice made by members of the military and their
families. In return for their service to our Nation, the least we can
do is make sure that our national service programs are able to benefit
veterans and military families.
On a bipartisan basis, the Education and Labor Committee chose to
incorporate support for veterans in the GIVE Act. My amendment is a
natural extension of that theme, and I hope it will garner the same
bipartisan agreement as the underlying bill.
Already, the GIVE Act seeks to increase opportunities for veterans to
serve and to increase the number of national service programs
responding to the needs of veterans under AmeriCorps. My amendment
enhances that effort by prioritizing services for and service by
veterans throughout all of our national service programs.
The bill before us includes a set-aside within AmeriCorps to support
programs for veterans. In addition, the bill includes a study of how
veterans are served and how they can be served more effectively. These
are positive first steps, but my amendment goes further. Under my
amendment, the Corporation will be required to place a priority on
applications that serve veterans or recruit veterans to serve. Rather
than a fixed set-aside within a single program, this amendment will
allow us to broaden the reach of service by and in support of veterans.
The Corporation for National and Community Service is required to
establish priorities when funding national service initiatives. This
ensures a targeted, effective investment. Under my amendment, included
among those priorities would be an emphasis on programs that recruit
veterans into service opportunities, promote community-based efforts to
meet the unique needs of military families while a family member is
deployed, and promote community-based efforts to meet the unique needs
of military families when a member of a family returns from a
deployment.
In addition, this amendment requires the Corporation to report to
Congress on its efforts to increase the number of veterans serving in
AmeriCorps and other positions that are eligible for the education
award.
Veterans, particularly those recently deployed to Afghanistan and
Iraq, deserve opportunities to reintegrate into their communities
through service programs funded under the national service laws. This
amendment will increase those opportunities.
Without this amendment, we will not have the necessary information to
effectively increase veteran participation in national service
positions or provide an educational award in exchange for citizen
service.
At a time when our service men and women are sacrificing on our
behalf around the world, we should be doing all we can to repay that
sacrifice. My amendment will make it the explicit policy of the Federal
Government to encourage the national service programs to focus more on
the unique needs of those heroes and their families, and to encourage
more veterans to take advantage of service opportunities under these
laws.
The GIFT Act is a solid, bipartisan reform package that will
strengthen our national service laws to make them more accountable,
efficient, and cost effective.
Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim time in
opposition, but I am not opposing the amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentlewoman is recognized
for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. One of the themes of the GIVE Act is to
increase opportunities for veterans to serve in national service
programs and to increase the amount of national service programs
responding to the needs of veterans.
At committee, two amendments were adopted to address these issues.
First, we directed the Corporation to reserve 3 percent of funds
allotted to AmeriCorps for competitive grant programs that focus on
veterans, particularly those that are recently returned from a
deployment, and their families. The second amendment required the
Corporation to conduct a study of how the national service laws would
better serve veterans and increase veteran participation and service,
and to create a pilot program based on that study.
This amendment builds up on those efforts. Under current law, States
and corporations are charged with establishing priorities to
determining the types of programs to be assisted under the national
service law. This amendment would require States and the Corporation to
include priorities for veterans when establishing priorities for the
distribution of assistance under these programs.
Those priorities would be geared towards programs that recruit
veterans into service opportunities, promote community-based efforts to
meet the unique needs of military families while a family member is
deployed, and promote community-based efforts to meet the unique
service of military families when a member of the family returns from a
deployment.
{time} 1215
In addition, this amendment encourages the corporation to report to
Congress on its efforts to increase the number of veterans serving in
AmeriCorps and other positions that are eligible for the educational
award. Veterans, particularly those recently deployed to Afghanistan
and Iraq, deserve opportunities to reintegrate into their communities
through service programs funded under the national service laws. This
amendment will increase those opportunities.
At a time when our servicemen and -women are sacrificing on behalf of
our country around the world, we should be doing all we can to repay
that sacrifice. This amendment will make it the explicit policy of the
Federal Government to encourage national service programs to focus more
on the unique needs of these heroes and their families and to encourage
more veterans to take advantage of service opportunities under these
laws.
I certainly urge its passage, and I thank Mr. McKeon for offering
this. It's a very good piece added to our legislation.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. McKEON. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank subcommittee Chair, Mrs.
McCarthy, and ranking member, Mr. Platts, for their hard work on this
bill. It's a good, bipartisan effort. I thank them for their help on
this amendment. I urge the amendment be supported by our colleagues.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentleman from California (Mr. McKeon).
The amendment was agreed to.
Amendment No. 3 Offered by Ms. Matsui
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 3
printed in House Report 110-539.
Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 3 offered by Ms. Matsui:
Page 56, strike lines 8 through 12 and insert the
following:
``(c) Allotment for Competitive Grants.--Of the funds
allocated by the Corporation for provision of assistance
under section 121(a) for a fiscal year and subject to section
133(d)(3), the Corporation shall reserve up to 62.7 percent
for grants awarded on a competitive basis to States for
national service programs and to nonprofit organizations
seeking to operate a national service program in 2 or more
States.''.
Page 56, strike lines 13 through 17.In such section 129, as
proposed to be added by such section 1306, strike subsection
(d) and redesignate subsections (e) through (k) as (d)
through (j), respectively.
Page 56, line 18, redesignate (e) as (d).
Page 57, line 6, strike ``37.5 percent'' and insert ``35.3
percent''.
Page 57, line 15, redesignate (f) as (e).
Page 58, lines 7 and 12, redesignate (g) and (h) as (f) and
(g), respectively.
Page 59, lines 1 and 20, redesignate (i) and (j) as (h) and
(i), respectively.
Page 63, line 3, strike ``and'' at the end.
Page 63, line 5, add ``and'' at the end.
Page 63, after line 5, add the following:
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) In the case of a nonprofit organization operating
programs in 2 or more States, a description of the manner and
extent to which the State Commissions of each State in which
the nonprofit organization intends to
[[Page H1383]]
operate were consulted and the nature of the consultation.''.
Page 64, after line 13, add the following:
SEC. 1308A. NATIONAL SERVICE PROGRAM ASSISTANCE REQUIREMENTS.
Section 131(c)(3) (42 U.S.C. 12583(c)(3)) is amended to
read as follows:
``(3) in the case of a program that is not funded through a
State, including programs operated by nonprofit organizations
seeking to operate a national service program in 2 or more
States--
``(A) consult with and coordinate with the State Commission
for the State in which the program operates; and
``(B) obtain written confirmation from the State Commission
that the applicant seeking assistance under this Act has
consulted with and coordinated with the State Commission when
seeking to operate a program in that State.''.
Page 64, line 21, strike ``and'' at the end.
Page 65, line 10, strike the period at the end and insert
``; and''.
Page 65, after line 10, add the following:
(3) by amending subsection (d)(3) to read as follows:
``(3) Additional priority.--In making a competitive
distribution under section 129(c), the Corporation--
``(A) shall solicit and consider the view of a State
Commission regarding any application for assistance to
operate a national service program within the State; and
``(B) may give priority to a national service program that
is--
``(i) proposed in an application submitted by a State
Commission; and
``(ii) not one of the types proposed in paragraph (2),
if the State Commission provides an adequate explanation of
the reasons why it should not be a priority of such State to
carry out any of such types of programs in the State.''.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the
gentlewoman from California (Ms. Matsui) and a Member opposed each will
control 5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from California.
Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I rise today to offer a bipartisan amendment to the GIVE Act. The
Matsui-Shays amendment makes needed changes to national service and
carries with it broad support. Our amendment will combine the two
separate State competitive funds and national competitive funds into
one singular funding pool. This change will improve national service
efficiency and effectiveness, while increasing collaboration between
State and national interests.
Every year organizations and the individuals they support are turned
away from the grants they need because of high demand or simple
administrative burdens. The current funding formula gives approximately
one-third of the funding to the States based on population,
approximately one-third to State competitive grants, and approximately
one-third to a national competitive funding pool. Under the current
formula, a high demand for State competitive grants means that State
grant applicants are turned away even if there are resources still
available in the national pool and vice versa.
Additionally, these deserving nonprofits and community service
organizations spend far too many of their valuable resources navigating
a confusing applications process and managing multiple grants. If this
amendment passes, these precious resources will now be used to better
serve their communities.
At its heart the amendment ensures that grants are competitively
distributed based on merit and that resources are used in the most
efficient and effective manner.
I hope that all of my colleagues will join Congressman Shays and
myself, as well as the Governor-appointed State service commissions,
national service organizations, leading nonprofits, and Members from
both sides of the aisle in support of this valuable amendment.
Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim the time in opposition to
the amendment although I am not opposed to it.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentleman from
Pennsylvania is recognized for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I rise in support of the amendment and commend the maker of the
amendment for helping to want to bring more competition to the process
of the grants being awarded and more cooperation between the national
and the State organizations. I'm aware that the National Governors
Association has indicated its support for this amendment and the end
result will be a stronger program, a program that is really more about
less administrative costs and more dollars flowing to the programs that
are going to make a difference in our communities, whether it be
national or State.
Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, at this point I yield 1 minute to the
gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy), the chairwoman of the
subcommittee.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. I thank the gentlewoman from California,
and I thank Mr. Shays.
Mr. Chairman, we are in full support of this amendment. The GIVE Act
seeks to improve national service and to do so in innovative, creative
ways. And this amendment does just that. We are grateful to Ms. Matsui
and Mr. Shays for bringing forth this amendment.
Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I'd just like to associate myself with the
remarks earlier from the gentleman from Connecticut, who spoke in favor
of this amendment during his previous statement, and again to ask all
Members to support this amendment when it is put before us for a vote.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, again I urge my colleagues to support the
Matsui-Shays amendment.
Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I would like to thank Congresswoman Matsui
and the Committee on Education and Labor for all of their hard work on
bringing H.R. 2857 to the floor today. I would also like to thank the
work and dedication of Chairman Miller, Ranking Member McKeon,
Subcommittee Chairwoman Davis, and Subcommittee Ranking Member Platts.
I believe national service is one of the most productive, cost
effective investments our government can make.
Since the inception of the Corporation for National and Community
Service, of which I was a co-author, more than 1 billion service hours
have been generated by Senior Corps volunteers, more than 40,000
individuals have served through AmeriCorps, and more than 1 million
high school students have participated annually in service-learning
initiatives.
In the wake of the September 11 attacks, natural disasters like
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and the increasing achievement gap in
education, the call to serve is louder than ever.
Our amendment will revise and improve the funding formula for
AmeriCorps, which engages more than 40,000 Americans in service
throughout the Nation, by combining State and national competitive
funding streams.
National service programs throughout the country believe this change
will provide a better means of allocating this funding and will bring
the highest quality programs to States.
The change will also enable States to compete for more funding and
provide States with more choices of programs.
Community service is about helping people, and it is also about
gaining deeper understanding of each other and the world around us.
Through service, Americans of all ages gain a sense of commitment to
their communities and their country, which will prove valuable for the
rest of their lives.
I urge my colleagues to support this amendment in order to increase
the effectiveness and efficiency of this valuable program.
Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentlewoman from California (Ms. Matsui).
The amendment was agreed to.
Amendment No. 4 Offered by Mr. McDermott
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 4
printed in House Report 110-539.
Mr. McDERMOTT. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 4 offered by Mr. McDermott:
At the end of the bill, add the following new title:
TITLE VI--CONGRESSIONAL COMMISSION ON CIVIC SERVICE
SEC. 6101. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the ``Congressional Commission
on Civic Service Act''.
SEC. 6102. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) The social fabric of the United States is stronger if
individuals in the United States
[[Page H1384]]
are committed to protecting and serving our Nation by
utilizing national service and volunteerism to overcome our
civic challenges.
(2) A more engaged civic society will strengthen the Nation
by bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and
experiences to work on solutions to some of our Nation's
major challenges.
(3) Despite declines in civic health in the past 30 years,
national service and volunteerism among the Nation's youth
are increasing, and existing national service and volunteer
programs greatly enhance opportunities for youth to engage in
civic activity.
(4) In addition to the benefits received by nonprofit
organizations and society as a whole, volunteering and
national service provide a variety of personal benefits and
satisfaction and can lead to new paths of civic engagement,
responsibility, and upward mobility.
SEC. 6103. ESTABLISHMENT.
There is established in the legislative branch a commission
to be known as the ``Congressional Commission on Civic
Service'' (in this title referred to as the ``Commission'').
SEC. 6104. DUTIES.
(a) General Purpose.--The purpose of the Commission is to
gather and analyze information in order to make
recommendations to Congress to--
(1) improve the ability of individuals in the United States
to serve others and, by doing so, to enhance our Nation and
the global community;
(2) train leaders in public service organizations to better
utilize individuals committed to national service and
volunteerism as they manage human and fiscal resources;
(3) identify and offer solutions to the barriers that make
it difficult for some individuals in the United States to
volunteer or perform national service; and
(4) build on the foundation of service and volunteer
opportunities that are currently available.
(b) Specific Topics.--In carrying out its general purpose
under subsection (a), the Commission shall address and
analyze the following specific topics:
(1) The level of understanding about the current Federal,
State, and local volunteer programs and opportunities for
service among individuals in the United States.
(2) The issues that deter volunteerism and national
service, particularly among young people, and how the
identified issues can be overcome.
(3) Whether there is an appropriate role for Federal,
State, and local governments in overcoming the issues that
deter volunteerism and national service and, if appropriate,
how to expand the relationships and partnerships between
different levels of government in promoting volunteerism and
national service.
(4) Whether existing databases are effective in matching
community needs to would-be volunteers and service providers.
(5) The effect on the Nation, on those who serve, and on
the families of those who serve, if all individuals in the
United States were expected to perform national service or
were required to perform a certain amount of national
service.
(6) Whether a workable, fair, and reasonable mandatory
service requirement for all able young people could be
developed, and how such a requirement could be implemented in
a manner that would strengthen the social fabric of the
Nation and overcome civic challenges by bringing together
people from diverse economic, ethnic, and educational
backgrounds.
(7) The need for a public service academy, a 4-year
institution that offers a federally funded undergraduate
education with a focus on training future public sector
leaders.
(8) The means to develop awareness of national service and
volunteer opportunities at a young age by creating,
expanding, and promoting service options for primary and
secondary school students and by raising awareness of
existing incentives.
(9) The effectiveness of establishing a training program on
college campuses to recruit and educate college students for
national service.
(10) The effect on United States diplomacy and foreign
policy interests of expanding service opportunities abroad,
such as the Peace Corps, and the degree of need and capacity
abroad for an expansion.
(11) The constraints that service providers, nonprofit
organizations, and State and local agencies face in utilizing
federally funded volunteer programs, and how these
constraints can be overcome.
(12) Whether current Federal volunteer programs are suited
to address the special skills and needs of senior volunteers,
and if not, how these programs can be improved such that the
Federal government can effectively promote service among the
``baby boomer'' generation.
(c) Methodology.--
(1) Public hearings.--The Commission shall conduct public
hearings in various locations around the United States.
(2) Regular and frequent consultation.--The Commission
shall regularly and frequently consult with an advisory panel
of Members of Congress appointed for such purpose by the
Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Majority
Leader of the Senate.
SEC. 6105. MEMBERSHIP.
(a) Number and Appointment.--
(1) In general.--The Commission shall be composed of 8
members appointed as follows:
(A) 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of
Representatives.
(B) 2 members appointed by the Minority Leader of the House
of Representatives.
(C) 2 members appointed by the Majority Leader of the
Senate.
(D) 2 members appointed by the Minority Leader of the
Senate.
(2) Qualifications.--The members of the Commission shall
consist of individuals who are of recognized standing and
distinction in the areas of international public service,
national public service, service-learning, local service,
business, or academia.
(3) Deadline for appointment.--The members of the
Commission shall be appointed not later than 90 days after
the date of the enactment of this title.
(4) Chairperson.--The Chairperson of the Commission shall
be designated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives
at the time of the appointment.
(b) Terms.--
(1) In general.--The members of the Commission shall serve
for the life of the Commission.
(2) Vacancies.--A vacancy in the Commission shall not
affect the power of the remaining members to execute the
duties of the Commission but any such vacancy shall be filled
in the same manner in which the original appointment was
made.
(c) Compensation.--
(1) Rates of pay; travel expenses.--Each member shall serve
without pay, except that each member shall receive travel
expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in
accordance with applicable provisions under subchapter I of
chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code.
(2) Prohibition of compensation of federal employees.--
Notwithstanding paragraph (1), any member of the Commission
who is a full-time officer or employee of the United States
may not receive additional pay, allowances, or benefits
because of service on the Commission.
(d) Meeting Requirements.--
(1) Frequency.--
(A) Quarterly meetings.--The Commission shall meet at least
quarterly.
(B) Additional meetings.--In addition to quarterly
meetings, the Commission shall meet at the call of the
Chairperson or a majority of its members.
(2) Quorum.--5 members of the Commission shall constitute a
quorum but a lesser number may hold hearings.
(3) Meeting by telephone or other appropriate technology.--
Members of the Commission are permitted to meet using
telephones or other suitable telecommunications technologies
provided that all members of the Commission can fully
communicate with all other members simultaneously.
SEC. 6106. DIRECTOR AND STAFF OF COMMISSION; EXPERTS AND
CONSULTANTS.
(a) Director.--
(1) Appointment.--The Commission shall have a Director who
shall be appointed by the Chairperson with the approval of
the Commission.
(2) Credentials.--The Director shall have credentials
related to international public service, national public
service, service-learning, or local service.
(3) Salary.--The Director shall be paid at a rate
determined by the Chairperson with the approval of the
Commission, except that the rate may not exceed the rate of
basic pay for GS-15 of the General Schedule.
(b) Staff.--With the approval of the Chairperson, the
Director may appoint and fix the pay of additional qualified
personnel as the Director considers appropriate.
(c) Experts and Consultants.--With the approval of the
Commission, the Director may procure temporary and
intermittent services under section 3109(b) of title 5,
United States Code, but at rates for individuals not to
exceed the daily equivalent of the maximum annual rate of
basic pay for GS-15 of the General Schedule.
(d) Staff of Federal Agencies.--Upon request of the
Commission, Chairperson, or Director, the head of any Federal
department or agency may detail, on a reimbursable basis, any
of the personnel of that department or agency to the
Commission to assist it in carrying out its duties under this
title.
SEC. 6107. POWERS OF COMMISSION.
(a) Hearings and Sessions.--The Commission may, for the
purpose of carrying out this title, hold public hearings, sit
and act at times and places, take testimony, and receive
evidence as the Commission considers appropriate.
(b) Powers of Members and Agents.--Any member or agent of
the Commission may, if authorized by the Commission, take any
action which the Commission is authorized to take by this
section.
(c) Obtaining Official Data.--Upon request of the
Chairperson, the head of any department or agency shall
furnish information to the Commission that the Commission
deems necessary to enable it to carry out this title.
(d) Physical Facilities and Equipment.--The Architect of
the Capitol, in consultation with the appropriate entities in
the legislative branch, shall locate and provide suitable
facilities and equipment for the operation of the Commission
on a nonreimbursable basis.
(e) Administrative Support Services.--Upon the request of
the Commission, the Architect of the Capitol and the
Administrator
[[Page H1385]]
of General Services shall provide to the Commission on a
nonreimbursable basis such administrative support services as
the Commission may request in order for the Commission to
carry out its responsibilities under this title.
SEC. 6108. REPORTS.
(a) Interim Report.--The Commission shall submit an interim
report on its activities to Congress not later than 20 months
after the date of the enactment of this title.
(b) Final Report.--
(1) Deadline.--The Commission shall submit a final report
on its activities to Congress not later than 120 days after
the submission of the interim report under subsection (a).
(2) Contents.--The final report shall contain a detailed
statement of the findings and conclusions of the Commission,
together with its recommendations for proposed legislation.
SEC. 6109. TERMINATION.
The Commission shall terminate not later than 30 days after
submitting its final report under section 6108(b)(1).
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the gentleman
from Washington (Mr. McDermott) and a Member opposed each will control
5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Washington.
Mr. McDERMOTT. Mr. Chairman, when Katharine Lee Bates wrote ``America
the Beautiful'' in 1893, I believe her poetic lyrics were intended to
express the goodness of the American people as much as the natural
beauty of our great Nation. America was founded on the concept of
helping one another, and that selfless spirit expresses itself in
countless acts of goodness by ordinary Americans every day.
I want to harness that American spirit, and I want to make it a part
of the American experience. Mr. Farr, Mr. Walsh, and Mr. Shays have
joined me in putting this amendment together, and we had a bill
previously, because we believe that making this possible for every
American is really where we ought to be.
We all benefit in countless ways from a Nation that is our home. I
believe we owe something in return. But there are countless ways for
every American to serve and give back to America, and America certainly
could use their help. That's why we put this together as an amendment
to establish a Congressional Commission on Civic Service.
We want this commission to investigate ways to create a broader
commitment to national service in order to strengthen our common sense
of responsibility to our community, our Nation, and to each other.
The commission would hold hearings around the country to engage the
American people and get their own ideas. Whether it's in schools or
nursing homes or prisons or mental hospitals or in the forests or
cleaning up beaches or whatever, we want to talk to the local people.
The commission would report to Congress with recommendations on how to
harness the power of one, that is, the power of American people to
improve our Nation.
Our amendment is a first step. It is simply an authorization, and the
Congress will need to follow up with an appropriation. It mirrors the
legislation we introduced last year, H.R. 1819.
Throughout the process, we have worked closely with some of America's
best organizations: Voices for Service Coalition, the National Peace
Corps Association, Corporation for National and Community Service, and
the State AmeriCorps Administrators.
President John Kennedy once said: ``Ask not what your country can do
for you. Ask what you can do for your country.'' From that came the
Peace Corps and other organizations similar, and we want to recreate
that sense of American expectation in this time. With this amendment we
want to help America answer that question and the call.
Today America needs the American people like never before to meet the
challenges of a slowing economy, health care, education, conservation.
The government can't do it all, and ordinary Americans can and in many
cases already do much of it.
It's time to build on the success of our national service programs
like AmeriCorps by considering bold proposals that compel, inspire, and
enable us to tackle the challenges, big and small, that will always
confront us. There is no shortage of ideas.
Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim the time in opposition,
although I am not opposed to the amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentleman from
Pennsylvania is recognized for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I do plan on supporting this amendment and
appreciate the intended maker of the amendment. And to make sure that
we are being thorough in our approach to this important issue, I do
want to express just some reservation that we don't duplicate the
efforts of the subcommittee and the work of the subcommittee or the
corporation itself in exploring the ideals of public service, but I
will be supporting it and encourage a ``yes'' vote.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. McDERMOTT. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from
New York (Mrs. McCarthy).
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. I thank the gentleman from Washington (Mr.
McDermott) for yielding.
We support this amendment. We look forward to the results of the
commission as we continue to increase the number of Americans who
participate in national service and work to overcome challenges in our
Nation's communities.
Mr. McDERMOTT. Mr. Chairman, I am waiting for Mr. Farr, but we will
see if he gets here in time.
The recommendations produced by this commission would be a plan of
action because it will look at three key areas: to improve the ability
of Americans to serve, to improve our community here and abroad. It
will also identify and offer solutions to the barriers that make it
difficult to perform national service and volunteer. And, finally, we
will look at ways to build the foundation of service opportunities that
are currently available.
According to the data collected from the Census Bureau, Americans
over the age of 16 are volunteering at an historically high rate with
61.2 million, giving their time in 2006 to help others by mentoring
students, beautifying neighborhoods, and restoring homes after
disasters.
Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Chairman, I would like to thank Congressman McDermott
and Congressman Farr, Congresswoman Matsui and the Committee on
Education and Labor for all of their hard work on bringing this
reauthorization to the floor today.
This amendment establishes a Congressional Commission on Civil
Service. The Commission would identify ways to expand opportunities for
volunteerism and national service in America. It would also recommend
ways Federal and local governments can improve awareness and access to
national service opportunities, encourage increased volunteerism and
better train future public service leaders.
I believe national service is one of the most productive, cost-
effective investments our Government can make.
I am pleased this amendment addresses the need for a public service
academy, a federally-funded 4-year institution dedicated to training
the future leaders of our country's public service sector. In the next
10 years, 90 percent of our nation's Federal executives will be over
the age of 50 and nearing retirement. We need to ensure that this
workforce is replaced with well-trained, invigorated graduates.
Investing in service opportunities provides enormous returns to
communities.
There is no substitute for the passion of our Nation's volunteers,
who can be found mentoring students, building houses, assisting senior
citizens or beautifying our national parks.
Community service is about helping people, and it is also about
gaining deeper understanding of each other and the world around us.
Through service, Americans of all ages gain a sense of commitment to
their communities and their country which will prove valuable for the
rest of their lives.
I urge my colleagues to support this amendment in order to increase
the effectiveness and efficiency of this valuable program.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. All time has expired.
The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from
Washington (Mr. McDermott).
The amendment was agreed to.
Amendment No. 5 Offered by Mr. English of Pennsylvania
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 5
printed in House Report 110-539.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
[[Page H1386]]
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 5 offered by Mr. English of Pennsylvania:
At the end of the bill, insert the following (and conform
the table of contents accordingly):
TITLE VI--SENSE OF CONGRESS
SEC. 6101. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the Sense of Congress that the Corporation for
National and Community Service should make the maximum effort
possible to coordinate the recruiting and assignment
procedures of their various programs to allow senior citizens
and their grandchildren to share volunteer opportunities and/
or be assigned to the same geographic areas during their
period of service.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the gentleman
from Pennsylvania (Mr. English) and a Member opposed each will control
5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Pennsylvania.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, this amendment would add a
section at the end of the bill to express a sense of Congress that the
Corporation for National and Community Service should attempt to
coordinate the recruiting and assignment procedures of their various
programs to allow senior citizens and their grandchildren to share
volunteer opportunities and be assigned to the same geographic areas
during their period of service.
I would note, Mr. Chairman, Marian McQuade, the founder of National
Grandparents Day and a homemaker from Fayette County, West Virginia,
held as one of her primary motivations of her advocacy for a National
Grandparents Day, persuading the grandchildren to tap the wisdom and
heritage of their grandparents. This amendment builds on the principles
that evolved into National Grandparents Day by creating more
opportunities to build bridges on an intergenerational basis and
strengthen the family structure. This amendment will honor grandparents
and enhance the bond between grandparents and grandchildren while
encouraging a lifetime of community service.
{time} 1230
It seems somehow fundamental that AmeriCorps and Senior Corps work
together to bring grandparents and grandchildren together to share
memorable and rewarding experiences of community service together,
strengthen bonds of family, and make the lives of fellow citizens
brighter.
I urge my colleagues to join me in passing this amendment today. This
is a remedy for many of the pressures that we feel today on families,
it's an attempt to unite generations, and it's an attempt to better
coordinate two very important programs in the interest of fostering
stronger families.
Mr. Chairman, I would retain the balance of my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. I rise to claim time in opposition, but I
am not opposing the amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentlewoman is recognized
for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Thank you.
We support this amendment, as it seeks to support the fostering of
service among generations of a family. It is easy to imagine the kind
of benefits that grandparents and their grandchildren would gain by not
only spending time together, but serving others. The earlier children
are introduced to service, the more likely they will volunteer
throughout their life.
Speaking as a grandparent, and I thank my colleague from Pennsylvania
(Mr. English) for introducing this, when I take my grandchildren with
me and I try to explain the work that I do, and to see them get
involved and be interested in the work that I do I think is a great
thing.
The volunteering work that we do, and we bring the grandchildren with
us, it opens up their eyes for a number of reasons. A lot of the work
that we do is serving in underserved areas and to be able to see that
these young children, my grandchildren, 7 and 9, are out there in the
community and seeing children less fortunate than them. But to take it
back even then to their classroom and say maybe we can do something,
when you have Grandparents Day in school with your grandchildren, and
you're fostering the sense of volunteerism.
So I thank the gentleman very much for bringing this to our
attention. I certainly am in full support of it.
I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. English).
The amendment was agreed to.
Amendment No. 6 Offered by Mr. English of Pennsylvania
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 6
printed in House Report 110-539.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the
desk.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 6 offered by Mr. English of Pennsylvania:
At the end of the bill, insert the following (and conform
the table of contents accordingly):
TITLE VI--SENSE OF CONGRESS
SEC. 6101. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the Sense of Congress that the Corporation for
National and Community Service should make the maximum effort
possible to coordinate with the National Endowment for the
Humanities to provide opportunities for young people enrolled
in NACS programs to collect oral histories form senior
citizens in the communities where they serve.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the gentleman
from Pennsylvania (Mr. English) and a Member opposed each will control
5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Pennsylvania.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Chairman, this amendment creates a sense of the Congress that the
Corporation for National and Community Service should make the maximum
effort possible to coordinate with the National Endowment for the
Humanities to provide opportunities for young people enrolled in
national and community service programs to collect oral histories from
senior citizens in the communities that they serve.
As cochairman of the Congressional Humanities Caucus, I have been
actively advocating policies and programs to raise awareness of the
role of history, literature, languages, and other humanities in
Americans' lives. As we all know, studying our history, our culture,
and our heritage can help provide a framework to guide our decisions as
we confront challenging issues facing us now and into the future. It
also gives us a national memory.
If we look back to the experience during World War II when the
Federal Government employed many writers to do histories of local
communities that now have become an important resource to us,
recognizing that we are at a time when our greatest generation is now
moving on and the opportunity to consult them could very well be lost
in the near future, this is an opportunity that we must seize.
As we all know, studying our history, our culture, and our heritage
can be an important part of our future defining of who we are. We not
only learn from museums and books, but we also learn from those who
have lived in the past. For that reason, I think it's important for our
youth to reach out to our knowledgeable elders who have lived through
tougher times, who have fought and seen wars, and who have seen the
transformation of America.
Close to 1,000 World War II veterans die each day. Many have never
spoken of their experiences. During a time in their lives where many
are lonely and yearning for an opportunity to have an exchange, this
creates an opportunity for us to capture those memories and
institutionalize them.
To carry on the American tradition and living history, I urge the
support of my colleagues for this amendment today.
Mr. Chairman, I retain the balance of my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim time in
opposition, but I am not opposing the amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentlewoman is recognized
for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. We support this amendment, as it continues
to support the integration of
[[Page H1387]]
priority for national service. Everyone gains when they speak to others
from a different generation and learn how things have changed over the
years. And yet, at the same time, how many things remain the same.
Fostering communication between people increases the connection for
all of the community. This piece will add a section to the bill that is
the sense of Congress that the Corporation for National and Community
Service should make the maximum effort possible to coordinate with the
National Endowment for the Humanities to provide opportunities for
young people enrolled in NACS programs to collect oral histories from
senior citizens in the communities they serve.
With that, I would like to yield 2 minutes to Mr. Anthony Weiner from
New York.
Mr. WEINER. I thank the sponsors of this legislation and of the
amendment.
I think this is an opportunity for us to expand on the notion that
many Americans already support, and that is the idea that Americans
very much want to be asked to help, they want to be asked to volunteer,
they want to be asked to serve. Despite the conventional wisdom about
growing apathy in the country, studies have actually shown that almost
30 percent did volunteer work in 2006, up dramatically since 1989, the
last time the survey was asked.
We found when asked is government, is Washington, is our country
asking enough of us, overwhelmingly Americans say no, we are not being
asked to do enough. Unlike the period after Pearl Harbor when FDR
famously called us all to this national sense of calling, we failed to
do it. The bill that we have today hopefully will reverse that to some
degree and get more people involved doing more things.
One of the things the bill does that is most laudable is expands
outreach to let cities, localities, and organizations know the program
has grown much more flexible over the course of years. I believe that
cities should be thinking about their own version of kind of a city
version of AmeriCorps, addressing specific problems, maybe not as
general as the AmeriCorps program is, where we have many people going,
doing discrete individual things, but create programs that cities say
let's try to tackle the problem of child hunger, let's try to tackle
the problem of affordability. This type of a program would allow cities
to take more control, something that my colleagues on both sides of the
aisle support.
Not that long ago, I gave a speech in May, where I laid out a
proposal in something I called AppleCorps, that New York City would
come up with their program to take advantage. The idea would be if you
get cities involved, maybe we can get them to put money in on top of
what we in the Federal Government are offering to tackle those
challenges that they face.
One thing is very clear, that when Roosevelt once famously asked,
``Now that we are in this war, we are all in it, all the way. Every
single, man, woman, and child is a partner in the most tremendous
undertaking of our American history. We must share together the bad
news and the good news, the defeats and the victories.'' This bill
seeks to do that.
Thank you very much for the time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of
my time.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to
join me in supporting this amendment, which I think will go a long way
to giving our next generation a sense of what our fathers and our
forefathers have faced.
I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. English).
The amendment was agreed to.
Amendment No. 7 Offered by Mr. English of Pennsylvania
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 7
printed in House Report 110-539.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the
desk.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 7 offered by Mr. English of Pennsylvania:
Page 133, after line 19, insert the following (and conform
the table of contents accordingly):
SEC. 1708. COORDINATION WITH VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS SERVING
VETERANS WITH DISABILITIES.
The Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and
Community Service shall coordinate with veterans
organizations serving veterans with disabilities to provide
opportunities for young people enrolled in existing NACS
programs to provide transportation services on a full-time,
part-time, or as-needed basis.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the gentleman
from Pennsylvania (Mr. English) and a Member opposed each will control
5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Pennsylvania.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, the freedom of the United
States has depended on the courage of men and women in uniform for over
200 years. Our veterans, having served as a member of the greatest
military in the world, can be assured that they have the appreciation
and admiration of millions of Americans.
The experience gained from the U.S. military is without a doubt
invaluable, and I applaud our veterans for the courage and the
commitment that they have demonstrated consistently while serving our
country.
With that said, I would like to offer this amendment, which will
provide a valuable service to our veteran population while giving young
volunteers an opportunity to be exposed to some of these American
heroes that have allowed us to exercise our everyday freedoms.
Specifically, my amendment would require the Board of Directors of the
Corporation for National and Community Service to work with the
Disabled American Veterans organization to provide opportunities for
young people to serve as drivers in the DAV transportation network.
This new service will certainly help ease the burden on veterans
throughout the country, especially in communities like mine and in
yours, Mr. Chairman, in rural areas where we have many veterans who
have a challenge getting the service that they need from our brick and
mortar VA institutions, give them easy and convenient transportation to
doctor appointments, physical therapy, and routine checkups.
Mr. Chairman, at a time when America's veterans are facing increased
challenges regarding health care coverage and full access to the
benefits that they have earned, Congress ought to embrace commonsense
policies that will help ensure our veterans get the care they need and
deserve.
In my part of Pennsylvania, Mr. Chairman, it has been a challenge to
drum up the volunteers to provide driver service for many of our VA
participants and clients. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting
this initiative that will help fill that gap and encourage more of our
young people to volunteer to help some of our aging veterans and some
of our younger veterans who happen to live a distance away from the
institution that serves them.
Mr. Chairman, I retain the balance of my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim time in
opposition, but I am not opposing this amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentlewoman is recognized
for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. I want to thank, again, my colleague Mr.
English from Pennsylvania for this amendment. This would require the
Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community
Service to coordinate with veterans organizations serving veterans to
provide opportunities for young people to enroll in existing NACS
programs to serve as drivers in the DAV transportation network on a
full-time, part-time, or as-needed basis. The reason we support this
amendment, which is similar to Mr. McKeon's in a way, is that it will
help serve our Nation's veterans. This amendment reminds us of the
challenges faced by disabled veterans after they have devoutly served
our Nation.
When I see a lot of my veterans back home in Long Island, a lot of
them do volunteer their time on driving our veterans back and forth. We
only have one veterans hospital on Long Island. A lot of these drivers
are as old as
[[Page H1388]]
those they are driving. So to see that our young people, and I can see
something like this, which would be terrific for our young college
students and our seniors that are driving, to be able to be part of
this.
It was earlier mentioned by Mr. Shays that with the war in Iraq, no
one has asked Americans to be helpful. Well, this is a perfect time.
This is where our young people can feel that all right, here we have
our veterans that have done a gallant job on protecting this Nation.
Help them now. Let us help them to get back and forth for their
physical therapy or any treatments that they need.
It's also a wonderful opportunity for our young people to get to know
our seniors and our veterans that have served this country. The more I
think about this, I am sorry that we didn't think of this amendment
while we were having our committee hearings. I think next time I will
reach out to my colleague and say what ideas do you have so we can
bring them to the committee.
So, again, I support this amendment. I think it's a terrific
amendment. I think it's a wonderful time for our young people and our
seniors and our veterans to get to know each other. They will actually
find they have a lot more in common than they do have apart.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, let me just say in
response to the gentlelady, I am most grateful for her support, and I
am most grateful for her open-mindedness. Seeing the excellent work
that she has done working on a bipartisan basis, and I want to also
thank my colleague from Pennsylvania on this very important
reauthorization. I am most grateful to them for their open-mindedness
to some small refinements on what I think is a reauthorization of an
enormously important program.
I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. English).
The amendment was agreed to.
{time} 1245
Amendment No. 8 Offered by Ms. Sutton
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 8
printed in House Report 110-539.
Ms. SUTTON. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 8 offered by Ms. Sutton:
Page 64, after line 16, insert the following:
(2) in subsection (c)(6), insert after subparagraph (E) the
following:
``(F) Areas that have a mortgage foreclosure rate greater
than the national average mortgage foreclosure rate for the
most recent 12 months for which satisfactory data are
available.''.
Page 64, lines 17 and 22, redesignate (2) and (3) as (3)
and (4), respectively.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the
gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Sutton) and a Member opposed each will
control 5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Ohio.
Ms. SUTTON. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Chairman, communities across this Nation are being devastated by
home foreclosures, and my home State of Ohio has been particularly hard
hit. This crisis has not stemmed from a single cause, and mitigating
its effects will not be achieved with a single solution. Housing
problems stem from predatory lending practices, job losses, and
situations such as death, divorce and health emergencies.
It is important, Mr. Chairman, that we pursue innovative solutions to
deal with this. This includes tying the provisions of Volunteerism and
Service-Learning grants to programs that will serve areas that have
been adversely affected by the mortgage crisis. This amendment would
require the Corporation for National and Community Service to consider
whether an area has a mortgage foreclosure rate greater than the
national average when considering grant applications from States and
other eligible entities.
In a time when so many of our communities are struggling, we need to
pursue every avenue to make sure that the cities and towns with the
greatest needs have access to the most assistance.
I urge a yes vote on this amendment.
Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to claim the time
in opposition, although I am not opposed to the amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentleman from
Pennsylvania is recognized for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the amendment and would associate
myself with the maker of the amendment's statements regarding the
importance of helping those who are facing challenges because of the
housing crisis. This amendment recognizes that communities that are
particularly hard hit by this crisis may be in need of special national
service efforts. I thus support the amendment and encourage a yes vote.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
Ms. SUTTON. Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as she may consume to the
distinguished gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy).
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I thank my colleague. Let me
say that my colleague is having a problem with her voice with
laryngitis, so I am actually going to be speaking for her from her
talking points. So I will continue talking about Ohio, which has been
particularly hurt by the current mortgage foreclosure crisis.
In a ranking of metropolitan areas with the highest foreclosure
rates, Ohio has the sad distinction of having four areas in the top 20.
Northeast Ohio, which includes Lorain and Elyria in her district, had
the sixth highest rate. Nearly 3 percent of all households in these
cities are in some stage of foreclosure, a 112 percent jump from 2006.
Akron came in at 12, Dayton at 15 and Toledo at 19.
The current subprime mortgage crisis has not stemmed from a single
cause, and mitigating its effects will not be achieved with a single
solution. Housing problems stem from predatory lending practices, job
losses, and situations such as death, divorce and health emergencies.
We must pursue innovative solutions, and this includes trying the
provisions of volunteerism and Service-Learning grants to areas that
have been adversely affected by the mortgage crisis.
This amendment would require the Corporation for National and
Community Service to consider whether an area has a mortgage
foreclosure rate greater than the national average when considering
grant applications from States and other eligible entities.
Each year, more than 1.5 million individuals serve our country
through the service programs that were created by the National and
Community Service Act. In a time when so many of our communities are
struggling, we need to pursue every avenue to make sure that the cities
and towns with the greatest needs have access to the most assistance.
We expect this amendment is going to be noncontroversial, but they
may argue that it is duplicative because of the factors that are
already included. The areas affected by high foreclosure rates would
likely also be areas with high concentrations of low-income persons and
high unemployment rates. But when we look at this, we see that by
including this additional factor we will focus the Corporation on
awarding grant funding to programs that address the specific needs of
communities affected by the foreclosure crisis.
When you look at this particular amendment, the Corporation for
National and Community Service administers the National Service Trust
Program, which provides funding for service programs, community groups,
youth groups, service-lending, campus-based programs, pre-professional
training programs and other services, one of the criteria the
Corporation is required to consider when evaluating applications for
funding is the extent to which projects would be conducted in the areas
where they are needed most.
Factors already considered are communities designated as empowerment
zones or redevelopment areas; targeted for special economic incentives;
designated as having high concentrations
[[Page H1389]]
of low-income people; areas that are environmentally distressed; areas
that are adversely affected by Federal actions related to the
management of Federal lands that result in significant regional job
losses and economic dislocation; areas adversely affected by reductions
in defense spending or closure of bases; areas with unemployment rates
greater than the national average for the 12 most recent months.
This amendment will add another factor that the Corporation must
consider when determining what constitutes an area.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. All time has expired.
The question is on the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from Ohio
(Ms. Sutton).
The amendment was agreed to.
Amendment No. 9 Offered by Ms. Sutton
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 9
printed in House Report 110-539.
Ms. SUTTON. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 9 offered by Ms. Sutton:
Page 133, insert after line 19 the following (and conform
the table of contents accordingly):
SEC. 1708. STUDY TO EXAMINE AND INCREASE SERVICE PROGRAMS FOR
DISPLACED WORKERS IN SERVICES CORPS AND
COMMUNITY SERVICE AND TO DEVELOP PILOT PROGRAM
PLANNING STUDY.
(a) Planning Study.--The Corporation for National and
Community Service shall conduct a study to identify--
(1) specific areas of need for displaced workers;
(2) how existing programs and activities carried out under
the national service laws could better serve displaced
workers and communities that have been adversely affected by
plant closings and job losses;
(3) prospects for better utilization of skilled workers as
resources and volunteers; and
(4) methods for ensuring the efficient financial
organization of services directed towards displaced workers.
(b) Consultation.--The study shall be carried out in
consultation with the Department of Labor, State labor
agencies, and other individuals and entities the Corporation
considers appropriate.
(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Corporation shall submit to
Congress a report on the results of the planning study
required by subsection (a), together with a plan for
implementation of a pilot program using promising strategies
and approaches for better targeting and serving displaced
workers.
(d) Pilot Program.--From amounts made available to carry
out this section, the Corporation shall develop and carry out
a pilot program based on the findings in the report submitted
under subsection (c).
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized
to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may
be necessary for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the
gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Sutton) and a Member opposed each will
control 5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Ohio.
Ms. SUTTON. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Chairman, as we heard with the last amendment, Ohio and many
other States have suffered tremendous job losses in recent years. These
workers and their families deserve our support, and they deserve
creative and innovative thinking and policies from us as their
representatives.
Programs such as AmeriCorps and Senior Corps have done so much to
provide opportunities for our youth and seniors. It is time now that we
investigate ways to provide similar opportunities for Americans who
have lost jobs through no fault of their own.
This amendment would require the Corporation for National and
Community Service to conduct a study to identify specific areas of need
for displaced workers and how existing programs and activities carried
out under our national service laws can better serve displaced workers
and communities affected by plant closings and job losses. The
amendment also requires the Corporation to develop and carry out a
pilot program based on the findings of the study.
Mr. Chairman, workers who have toiled for so long in manufacturing
plants have much to offer their communities with their unique skill
sets and leadership capabilities. I look forward to seeing how new
service programs would reinvigorate America's displaced workforce with
a sense of new purpose, so that they may continue to explore new career
opportunities and continue contributing to our communities.
I urge a yes vote on this amendment.
Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to claim the time
in opposition, although I am not opposed to the amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Without objection, the gentleman from
Pennsylvania is recognized for 5 minutes.
There was no objection.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Chairman, I do rise in support of this amendment. This amendment
is similar to a study and pilot program dealing with veterans that was
authorized through an amendment that passed in the committee. While I
hope that as this bill moves forward we do not end up with studies and
pilot programs for so many different areas that we lose our focus on
the bill's priorities, I do believe that it is appropriate activity for
the corporation to undertake this effort.
In general, unemployment remains extremely low by historical
standards, despite concerns about the economy. However, for those
communities such as the maker of the amendment referenced in her home
State of Ohio that are experiencing unusually high job losses, it would
be wise to explore ways to target national service efforts towards
addressing those concerns.
Therefore, I support the amendment, and encourage a yes vote.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
Ms. SUTTON. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the support of the
distinguished gentleman from Pennsylvania. I thank him for his work on
this bill. It is greatly appreciated by the people I represent. And to
the distinguished chairwoman, the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs.
McCarthy), I also extend my appreciation, and I yield her such time as
she may consume.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I thank my colleague from
Ohio.
Good data collection is so important, because with data we can
determine how to better implement programs and better serve the needs
of our Nation's citizens. As workers must find ways to obtain new
skills or transition into a new career, this study will provide us with
important information. Service can be a bridge between one phase of
life to another or from one career to another.
It is not a secret to anyone that Ms. Sutton's home State of Ohio has
suffered tremendous job losses in recent years. From the year 2000 to
2007, Ohio has lost more than 209,000 non-farm jobs, the biggest 7 year
drop since the end of the Great Depression. These workers and families
deserve our support, and they deserve creative and innovative thinking
and policies from us as their representatives.
This study and pilot program require the Corporation for National and
Community Service to examine how to use community service programs to
provide opportunities for displaced workers. Programs such as
AmeriCorps and Senior Corps have done so much to provide opportunities
for our young and our seniors. It is time that we investigate ways to
provide similar opportunities for Americans who have lost their jobs
through no fault of their own.
Workers who have toiled for so long in manufacturing plants have much
to offer their communities, and their unique skill sets and leadership
capabilities should not go to waste when plants close. I look forward
to seeing how new service programs would reinvigorate America's
displaced workforce with a sense of purpose so they may explore new
career opportunities and continue contributing to all their
communities.
The Corporation for National and Community Service has proven itself
to be an entrepreneurial, innovative and effective organization. This
amendment will lead the Corporation in a new direction to consider how
the programs they provide funding to can do better serve the needs of
America's displaced workers.
[[Page H1390]]
Our national service laws provide funding for numerous worthy
organizations such as AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, Habitat for Humanity,
City Year, Boys and Girls Club, Teach for America, and Youthbuild. This
amendment will spur new programs that address the needs of our
displaced workers and their families.
So, again I thank my colleague from Ohio (Ms. Sutton) for offering
this amendment, and I am looking forward to working with her on other
areas.
Ms. SUTTON. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentlewoman for being
compassionate and expanding on the amendment. As she indicated, I have
a little health issue I am dealing with here.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Sutton).
The amendment was agreed to.
Amendment No. 10 Offered by Mr. Flake
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 10
printed in House Report 110-539.
Mr. FLAKE. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 10 offered by Mr. Flake:
Page 16, line 11, strike ``; and'' and insert a period.
Page 16, strike line 12 and all that follows through page
18, line 21.
Page 148, line 24, strike ``$65,000,000 for fiscal year
2008,'' and all that follows through ``; and'' on page 149,
line 4, and insert ``$45,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and''.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the gentleman
from Arizona (Mr. Flake) and a Member opposed each will control 5
minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Arizona.
Mr. FLAKE. Mr. Chairman, Ronald Reagan once said, ``No matter how big
or powerful government gets and the many services it provides, it can
never take the place of volunteers.'' I believe that wholeheartedly.
But listening to the debate today, you might easily conclude that
volunteerism wasn't discovered until Congress discovered it, and that
the only meaningful service that anyone can provide is in a program
sponsored by government. We all know that that is simply not the case.
In truth, the programs that are being talked about today, the
government-sponsored programs, make up probably less than one-hundredth
of 1 percent of all the volunteer activity that takes place across this
country. But when we have community service and volunteer positions,
when we end up financing them or providing incentives from government,
it becomes just another government service.
{time} 1300
The new Summer of Service grant program created by this legislation
gives incentives to community service work in the form of financial
benefits at taxpayer expense. The amendment that I am offering today
would simply strike all the language in the bill relating to the so-
called Summer of Service program and reduce the authorization by $20
million. This is the amount designated to the program.
The new Summer of Service program would award $20 million annually
for education awards for volunteer positions in which school-aged
participants can earn up to $1,000 for completion of a 100-hour
community-based service-learning project.
Now, we are all familiar with volunteer service that goes on:
churches, Rotary Clubs, Boy Scout organizations. In fact, this weekend,
2 days from now, my own son will be doing his Eagle project. He will
provide up to 30 hours of service himself, and more than 100 hours will
be provided by people that he has recruited to help him in his project.
This kind of activity goes on every day, every minute of every day,
every second of every day. And yet, we feel that we have to have new
and more government programs somehow to prompt volunteer service. That,
I think, sells people across this country short. People can volunteer
on their own and do without benefits provided by government.
I reserve the balance of my time.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim time in
opposition to the amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The gentlewoman is recognized for 5 minutes.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. I yield myself 3 minutes.
Mr. Chairman, I rise to oppose this amendment. When the National
Community Service Act was enacted in 1990, we saw powerful new
opportunities to inspire civic engagement and transformation in our
communities. Last year, AmeriCorps' number reached 500,000, and today
Learn and Serve Americans continue to support service learning for K-12
and college students making a vital connection between their academic
studies and a real world application through their service.
Now, with the Summer of Service program, we can provide a new opening
to reach many young people we know will benefit with the opportunities
to spend a summer in service to their communities. It is a right of
passage during grades 5-12.
Mr. Chairman, this program grants educational awards of up to $500 to
students who complete 100 hours of service over the summer months. By
employing service-learning models to teach civic participation skills,
the program will help young people serve their communities and expand
educational opportunities for themselves and discourage what is
commonly known as the summer academic slide.
Today, 10 million students nationwide between the ages of 12 and 18
have participated in school-based service. Research shows that, among
those students, teens from disadvantaged communities who serve hold
more positive civic attitudes. Kids who engage in volunteering are more
likely to be successful in school and avoid risky behaviors such as
drugs, alcohol, and crime. Unfortunately, those disadvantaged teens who
have so much to gain from the experience are less likely to volunteer
than their peers from more advanced backgrounds.
When service is tied to what students are learning in school, young
people make gains on achievement tests, complete their homework more
often, and increase their grade point average. Students who engage in
service learning improve communication skills, grow more aware of
career possibilities, and develop more positive workplace attitudes,
laying the foundation for America's future leaders. Yet, Learn and
Serve's funding stayed the same at no more than $43 million since 1996,
and decreasing over the past several years. In Learn and Serve's last
grant award cycle, they had 506 applications but only the resources for
102 awards.
For generations, during times of great crisis and need throughout our
Nation, students have stepped up and served their country and their
communities. Today, again, our young people want to serve and are
desperate to do their part, yet their call has gone unheard.
Since 2001, there have been nearly 50 proposals involving national
service before Congress, and not one has been enacted. Here we have a
program that demonstrates our commitment to that great promise. A
modest investment in Summer of Service is an important and long overdue
step in providing service-learning opportunities for young people to
start.
We must do everything we can to help every child reach his or her
full potential. We cannot teach our children until we honestly help
them become engaged in their communities and give them the power to
actively participate in their education. I urge a ``no'' vote on this
amendment.
Mr. Chairman, I yield time to my colleague from Maryland (Mr.
Sarbanes).
Mr. SARBANES. Mr. Chairman, I rise as well to oppose this amendment,
which really overlooks the incredible positive impact that a summer of
service can have on our youth.
The Summer of Service is a program which fills a policy gap which
helps communities create positive alternatives for young teens. The
middle school years in particular are extremely pivotal years for young
people. Most youth are making the difficult transition from middle
school to high school, and many of them have no organized activities
during those periods when they are out of school. Many are left
unsupervised and at risk of being engaged in potentially harmful
activity. We want to engage them. We want to make sure that they have
something to do.
[[Page H1391]]
I was recently, Mr. Chairman, at a conference held in Baltimore that
is focusing on what some refer to as the summer learning slide or
summer learning lost. Basically, what do you do to engage students over
those summer months to make sure that you are complementing the
educational opportunities that they have during the regular school
year? And the Summer of Service is a perfect opportunity to do that and
to support them so that continuum, that trajectory is always upward. It
is not a kind of roller coaster where you get two steps forward and you
slip one step back.
How our youth spend their time during the summer period may determine
whether they embark on a course of active citizenship and civic
engagement and engaged learning or whether they go down a different
path. This was a conclusion of a conference that the White House
convened in 2000 to look at the issues that are facing teenagers. The
Summer of Service initiative will offer youth the chance to spend a
summer in service to their communities. I urge that we vote against the
Flake amendment that would eliminate the Summer of Service.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The gentleman's time has expired.
Mr. FLAKE. May I inquire as to the time remaining on my side.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The gentleman from Arizona has 2\1/2\ minutes
remaining.
Mr. FLAKE. Mr. Chairman, this $20 million program is being authorized
under the Learn and Serve program. I would be glad to yield 30 seconds
to the sponsor of this program or to the committee if I can find out if
they actually studied whether this program is working as it is. It
doesn't seem they are near the microphone, so I will read something
from the Office of Management and Budget.
The Office of Management and Budget audited this program a while ago
under the Learn and Serve program. The Learn and Serve program was
audited to be not performing, results not demonstrated. The AmeriCorps
National Civilian Community Corps, not performing. Ineffective. This is
our own government telling us what our own programs are doing, and yet
here we are under the Learn and Serve program authorizing $20 million
more for a new program without trying to go in and actually fix the old
program or eliminate the old program.
We in Congress sometimes wonder why our authorizing committees are
sometimes neglected. This is why. This is why. This program, the whole
AmeriCorps program hasn't been reauthorized I think since 1996 or so;
and yet, when we do come to reauthorize it, we ignore what our own
government, our own agencies are telling us about these programs and we
simply pile more money on.
No matter what we do on the overall bill, and I can read the writing
on the wall, the bill is going to pass, let's at least give some
thought to the taxpayers here who have to fund this, to say that we are
not going to increase a program to create a new program under an
existing program that has been rated by our own Office of Management
and Budget as not performing, results not demonstrated.
I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Flake).
The question was taken; and the Acting Chairman announced that the
noes appeared to have it.
Mr. FLAKE. Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to clause 6 of rule XVIII, further
proceedings on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Arizona will
be postponed.
Amendment No. 11 Offered by Mr. Inslee
The Acting CHAIRMAN. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 11
printed in House Report 110-539.
Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Amendment No. 11 offered by Mr. Inslee:
Page 144, strike lines 15 through 19 and insert the
following (and conform the table of contents accordingly):
Subtitle I--Energy Conservation Corps
SEC. 1811. GENERAL AUTHORITY.
The Corporation for National and Community Service (in this
subtitle referred to as the ``Corporation'') shall make
grants to States for the creation or expansion of full-time
or part-time Energy Conservation Corps programs.
Notwithstanding provisions identified in this subtitle, the
Corporation shall apply the provisions of subtitle C of this
subchapter in making grants under this section as necessary.
SEC. 1812. APPLICATION.
(a) In General.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this subtitle, a State shall invite applications from within
the State to receive an Energy Conservation Corps grant.
(b) Process.--The State shall then prepare and submit a
State application to the Corporation at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the Corporation
may reasonably require. The Corporation shall consult with
state and local Conservation Corps in the development of the
application guidelines.
(c) Disadvantaged Youth.--To acknowledge the focused
enrollment of disadvantaged youth and young adults in the
Energy Conservation Corps, the Corporation shall--
(1) allow a higher cost-per-member to enable Energy
Conservation Corps programs to provide the necessary
supportive services to ensure the success of the
participants; and
(2) allow for greater flexibility in retention rates.
(d) Consideration of Residential Corps.--The Corporation
shall allow for equal consideration of residential Corps
program opportunities since residential Corps thrive in rural
areas that commonly lack opportunities for young adults,
enable the participation for emancipated foster youth, gang
involved youth, and others lacking a safe and stable home
environment, allow for more structured time for work,
training, education and counseling, and provide disaster
response-ready crews immediately upon request.
(e) Equitable Treatment.--In the consideration of
applications, the Corporation shall ensure the equitable
treatment of both urban and rural areas.
SEC. 1813. FOCUS OF PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--Programs that receive assistance under
this subtitle may carry out activities that--
(1) meet an identifiable public need with specific emphasis
on projects in support of energy conservation, infrastructure
and transportation improvement, and emergency operations,
including--
(A) improving the energy efficiency of housing for elderly
and low-income people;
(B) building energy-efficient ``green'' housing for elderly
and low-income people;
(C) environmental education and energy conservation
education for elementary and secondary school students and
the public;
(D) reusing and recycling including deconstruction;
(E) the repair, renovation, or rehabilitation of an
existing infrastructure facility including, but not limited
to, rail, mass transportation, ports, inland navigation,
schools and hospitals;
(F) transportation enhancements;
(G) recreational trails improvements, including those that
enable alternative means of transportation and ensure safe
use;
(H) transformation of military bases affected by the Base
Realignment and Closing process (BRAC) to green the space;
(I) tree planting and reforestation;
(J) renewable resource enhancement; and
(K) assisting in emergency operations, such as disaster
prevention and relief; and
(2) provide opportunities for youth and young adults,
especially disadvantaged youth, to be trained for careers
related to the activities listed in paragraph (1), including
those that will be part of the emerging field of ``green
collar'' jobs.
(b) Goals of the Energy Conservation Corps.--The goals of
the Energy Conservation Corps are to--
(1) promote clean energy use and preserve, protect, and
sustain the environment;
(2) provide young adults with opportunities to become
better citizens, students and workers through meaningful
service to their communities and the nation;
(3) mobilize youth and young adults, especially
disadvantaged youth, to promote energy conservation and
mitigate threats to the environment; and
(4) provide a pathway to responsible adulthood and
productive, unsubsidized employment in the private sector.
SEC. 1814. TRAINING AND EDUCATION SERVICES.
All applicants must describe how they intend to--
(1) assess the skills of Corpsmembers;
(2) provide life skills and work skills training;
(3) provide training and education;
(4) develop agreements for academic study with--
(A) local education agencies;
(B) community colleges;
(C) 4-year colleges;
(D) area charter high schools and vocational-technical
schools; and
(E) community-based organizations;
(5) provide career and educational guidance; and
(6) Recruit participants without high school diplomas.
SEC. 1815. PREFERENCE FOR CERTAIN PROJECTS.
In the consideration of applications the Corporation shall
give preference to programs that are discrete and--
[[Page H1392]]
(1) meet an identifiable public need;
(2) instill a work ethic and a sense of public service in
the participants;
(3) involve youth operating in crews or a team-based
structure; and
(4) enhance skills development and educational level and
opportunities for the participants.
SEC. 1816. PARTICIPANTS.
(a) In General.--Age enrollment in programs that receive
assistance under this subtitle shall be limited to
individuals who, at the time of enrollment, are not less than
18 years nor more than 25 years of age, except that summer
programs may include individuals not less than 14 years or
more than 21 years of age at the time of the enrollment of
such individuals.
(b) Participation of Disadvantaged Youth.--Programs that
receive assistance under this subtitle shall ensure that at
least 50 percent of the participants are economically
disadvantaged youth.
(c) Special Corpsmembers.--Notwithstanding subsection (a)
of this section, program agencies may enroll a limited number
of special Corpsmembers over age 25 so that the Energy
Conservation Corps may draw on their special skills to
fulfill the purposes of this chapter.
SEC. 1817. USE OF VOLUNTEERS.
The use of volunteer services under this section shall be
subject to the condition that such use does not result in the
displacement of any participant.
SEC. 1818. COOPERATION AMONG STATES FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE.
(a) Agreements Between States.--States operating an Energy
Conservation Corps may enter into a compact with
participating states to provide for mutual cooperation to
manage any emergency or disaster that is duly declared by the
affected state.
(b) Participating State Responsibilities.--
(1) The authorized representative of a participating state
may request assistance of another party by contracting the
authorized representative of that state. The provisions of
this agreement shall only apply to requests for assistance
made by and to authorized representatives.
(2) There shall be frequent consultation between state
officials who have assigned emergency management
responsibilities and other appropriate representatives of the
party states with affected jurisdictions and the United
States Government, with free exchange of information, plans,
and resource records relating to emergency capabilities.
SEC. 1819. FEDERAL SHARE.
The federal share of the cost of carrying out an Energy
Conservation Corps program for which a grant is made under
this subtitle is 76 percent of the total cost of the program.
SEC. 1820. BEST PRACTICES.
(a) Training and Technical Assistance.--The Corporation
shall provide technical assistance to grantees that request
assistance and shall disseminate best practices that emerge
from the Energy Conservation Corps.
(b) Contract.--In providing training and technical
assistance, the Corporation shall contract with a national
organization with a proven track record of developing and
sustaining Corps, working with the Conservation Corps model,
and engaging young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
SEC. 1820A. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated
such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 2008 through
2010 to achieve the purposes of this subtitle.
(b) Allocation.--Of the amounts appropriated to carry out
this subtitle for each fiscal year--
(1) 90 percent shall be for grants to eligible entities;
(2) 5 percent shall be technical assistance, and
dissemination of best practices; and
(3) 5 percent shall be for evaluation.
SEC. 1820B. LEARN AND SERVE AMERICA.
(a) In General.--To promote Learn and Serve programs that
have the potential to reach every student in our public
education network and private schools through school-based
green service-learning, the Corporation shall establish a
competitive grant program for the creation or expansion of
such service learning programs.
(b) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this section, a State Education Agency, Local education
Agency, or nonprofit organization shall submit an application
with such information and in such time as the Corporation may
require.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--For this purpose,
there are authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000 for
fiscal year 2009 and such sums as may be necessary
thereafter.
SEC. 1820C. NATIONAL SENIOR SERVICE CORPS.
(a) In General.--To promote National Senior Service Corps
programs that have the potential to both involve seniors in
providing meaningful volunteer opportunities the Corporation
shall establish a competitive grant program for the creation
or expansion of National Senior Service Corps programs that--
(1) make effective use of the talents and experience of
seniors, particularly baby boomers, in programs and projects
involving seniors in the improvement of the energy efficiency
of housing for elderly and low-income people;
(2) building or helping to supervise energy-efficient
``green'' housing for elderly and low-income people; the
repair, renovation, or rehabilitation of an existing
infrastructure facility including, but not limited to, rail,
mass transportation, ports, inland navigation, schools and
hospitals; transportation enhancements; recreational trails
improvements, including those that enable alternative means
of transportation and ensure safe use;
(3) volunteering in schools to teach or other support
environmental education and energy conservation education for
elementary and secondary school students and the public; and
(4) assisting in such other activities as the National
Senior Service Corps may identify.
(b) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this section, a program in the National Senior Service Corps
shall submit an application with such information and in such
time as the Corporation may require.
(c) Authorization.--For this purpose, there is authorized
to be appropriated $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2009 and such
sums as may be necessary thereafter.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to House Resolution 1015, the gentleman
from Washington (Mr. Inslee) and a Member opposed each will control 5
minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Washington.
Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Chairman, I rise with Mr. Sarbanes to offer an
amendment today that will establish an energy conservation corps
program. This will provide green collar training and educational
service grants to nonprofit organizations, universities, and State and
local governments. This is really an exciting opportunity for us to
create opportunities for young folks to be engaged in this new
revolution of clean energy in this country.
The energy conservation corps we envisioned will help revitalize
communities and preserve and restore the environment, while also
preparing young people for the responsible and productive lives we know
they are going to have.
The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 will create hundreds
of thousands of new opportunities for Americans. It will give low-
income young people training to fill these green collar jobs that we
are now excited about and hope for a prosperous and successful future.
The conservation corps will fund energy conservation installations in
public spaces, energy efficient green housing for elderly and low-
income people, and restoration of historic structures on public lands.
It would also provide funding for and repair, renovation, and rehabbing
of existing infrastructure facilities, and transportation enhancements
and recreational trail improvements. It is going to help a lot of
places that we need energy conservation. It also establishes a
competitive grant program to fund National Senior Service Corps
programs that will involve seniors in providing meaningful volunteer
opportunities.
Now, there are multiple organizations that can participate in this,
one of which just as an example is the Student Conservation
Association. Under this grant program, they will be able to deploy
sustainable community projects which engage disadvantaged and other
youth to help communities learn energy saving and water conservation
techniques and strategies to prevent pollution.
In this program, SCA corps members will be able to provide a variety
of energy-related services to homeowners, schools, and businesses, and
communities. These services include outreach and education, facility
audits, development of energy reduction strategies, and implementation
in support of these programs. As part of this program, corps members
will receive training, career development, and life skills while
helping communities benefit from these sustainable programs.
I am familiar with this organization, the SCA. My parents led Student
Conservation Association efforts with young people in Mt. Rainier
National Park back in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and I saw how
important these programs were both to help these communities, and to
help the young folks themselves. Because what we have learned is, and
what I saw firsthand when my folks worked with the SCA kids, once kids
get involved in volunteer programs, once they get involved in their
communities, once they get involved in clean energy, they are never
going to turn back. This is going to be a lifetime pursuit, and there
is nothing better we can do to help both kids' lives but this clean
energy revolution we are going to launch in this country.
So, by establishing the energy conservation corps, we will help make
our
[[Page H1393]]
Nation's volunteer programs into a true 21st century program, and we
will also help solve one of the most pressing challenges of this
century, global warming, while helping our kids as well.
Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to Chairwoman McCarthy.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I want to say thank you to
my colleague for offering this amendment, and I certainly fully support
it. But I want to also address Mr. Flake's concern and clarify: While
OMB conducted a part assessment on Learn and Serve, the Summer of
Service initiative, what we are proposing is a new initiative that I
believe has not been parted.
So with that being said, I think that when we look at the whole bill,
and especially for the Summer of Service part, we have an opportunity
to help our people, our young people during the summertime. This, to
me, can certainly cut down on what we are seeing in our communities
across this country right now, on more violence in our communities. We
have to look at what is the underlying cause.
With that being said, we are certainly doing the most we can for the
little amount of money that we have, to make the biggest impact on
these children's lives. So with that being said, I certainly hope that
when we come down to it that we will be against Mr. Flake's amendment
and let this bill go forward, and let's help the young people, let's
help our veterans, let us help everybody in this particular amendment.
It is a good bill. It has been overwhelmingly supported on both sides
of the aisle, but this particular amendment, as far as I am concerned,
would hurt too many of our young people.
{time} 1315
Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I claim the time in opposition.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The gentleman from Pennsylvania is recognized
for 5 minutes.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, while I certainly understand the focus and
intent of this amendment, I rise in opposition and worry that this
amendment will create more bureaucracy and administrative costs rather
than focus on getting dollars out to the participants in the programs.
The focus of the GIVE Act is on streamlining our national service
programs to make them more effective, efficient, and accountable. To do
that, we have refocused a number of programs and added priorities to
others to ensure that national service funds are being spent on
initiatives that meet the most pressing needs.
We have accomplished that by working within the existing program
structures rather than piling new programs on top of existing programs
with similar purposes. I share the gentleman's concerns in the area of
energy conservation. I believe a better approach to this issue would
have been to work within existing structures. In fact, this bill
already does that by addressing energy usage and conservation in a
number of areas.
Learn and Service, a new Summer of Service program, includes a focus
on energy conservation. And in the innovative program section of that
program, energy conservation is specifically included as a type of
program eligible for funding.
Under the National Civilian Community Corps, energy conservation was
specifically added as a new purpose for that program. And under the
programs of national significance authority within the Senior Corps,
energy conservation and environmental stewardship were added as types
of programs eligible for funding.
Obviously, infrastructure issues are found throughout the bill
because we recognize that this is a priority in many locations. But
establishing a new corps that will siphon away already scarce resources
will only undermine the efforts of the amendment's sponsors to bring
greater focus to these types of programs.
I understand this amendment authorizes $10 million for fiscal year
2009. Well, not within this specific act, but the Public Land Corps
within the Department of the Interior already exists and is funded by
the Federal Government at the amount of $2.5 million this year and it
is authorized for $12 million. This program, the Public Land Corps,
engages disadvantaged youth ages 16-24 in protecting public lands and
the environment, including global warming and emissions reduction.
So my opposition is not to the focus of the effort, but I believe we
are being duplicative and are going to waste hours on administrative
costs in creating a new program rather than investing these dollars in
existing programs that will better focus on energy conservation.
So I would encourage a ``no'' vote, and ask Members to vote ``no.''
Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Chairman, I yield 10 seconds to the gentlewoman from
New York (Mrs. McCarthy).
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. I just want to clarify I certainly am in
support of the Inslee-Sarbanes amendment. I just wanted to clarify
that.
Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Chairman, I yield the balance of my time to the
gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Sarbanes).
Mr. SARBANES. Mr. Chairman, I just want to say that I am in strong
support of this amendment. I am glad to cosponsor it with Congressman
Inslee.
The way we are going to make improvement with our environment is when
hundreds of thousands of people develop the habits that clean up the
environment instead of having the habits that hurt the environment.
There is no better way to do this than to establish this Energy
Conservation Corps which brings a service dimension for our young
people and for our seniors in the Learn and Service programs to support
this green frontier that we are embarked upon.
So I think it is a critical boost to the other efforts that we are
making on the energy horizon.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I just want to again emphasize that the GIVE Act specifically
includes ``energy conservation and stewardship as specified allowable
uses of grant funds in programs already in place.'' So I would
encourage a ``no'' vote.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. The question is on the amendment offered by the
gentleman from Washington (Mr. Inslee).
The question was taken; and the Acting Chairman announced that the
ayes appeared to have it.
Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.
The Acting CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to clause 6 of rule XVIII, further
proceedings on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Washington
will be postponed.
Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I move that the Committee do
now rise.
The motion was agreed to.
Accordingly, the Committee rose; and the Speaker pro tempore (Mr.
Obey) having assumed the chair, Mr. Holden, Acting Chairman of the
Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, reported that
that Committee, having had under consideration the bill (H.R. 2857) to
reauthorize and reform the national service laws, had come to no
resolution thereon.
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