Bill > S2785

This bill, called the "A Chance To Serve Act," expands benefits for Peace Corps and AmeriCorps volunteers across multiple areas. For Peace Corps volunteers, the bill extends non-competitive job eligibility to three years after service, allows lawful permanent residents to serve, ensures volunteers receive monthly stipends regularly even during government shutdowns, and provides one year of free Veterans Affairs healthcare after service. The bill also increases the readjustment allowance from $125 to $425, makes these allowances non-taxable, and suspends federal student loan payments and interest during service. For AmeriCorps volunteers, the bill increases national service positions to at least 500,000, raises the living allowance to 200% of the poverty line, provides one year of continued health benefits after service, doubles the education award, and allows more flexible use of that award. Additionally, the bill expands loan forgiveness options for national service participants, permits refugees and asylees to serve, creates planning grants for underserved communities, and allows for shorter service terms. The legislation aims to make national service more attractive, supportive, and accessible by addressing financial, healthcare, and professional development challenges faced by volunteers.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2785/all-info