Bill > S2782

This bill establishes two primary grant programs to encourage student participation in local government and volunteer service. First, the Secretary of Education will create a competitive grant program to support paid internships for secondary school and undergraduate students within local government units. Each grant recipient must identify internship opportunities, establish a selection process, determine pay rates, and cover internship costs. The program also requires working with higher education institutions to ensure educational value and providing accommodations like flexible schedules for interns with challenges such as childcare or transportation needs. The bill authorizes $50 million in funding for fiscal years 2026-2030 for this internship program. Second, the bill creates a scholarship program for students who complete volunteer service, with states receiving allocations based on their student enrollment. Students can earn scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 by completing between 100-250 hours of volunteer work, with priority given to returning applicants. The scholarship can only be used for higher education costs and can be received for up to four academic years. Additionally, the Secretary may reserve up to 20% of funds to provide supplementary scholarships directly to students. The bill also includes a program to recognize educational institutions for their community service achievements and provides comprehensive definitions for terms used in the legislation.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2782/all-info