During this time of significant uncertainty, we need to respond with significant mobilization to support the Peace Corps and return volunteer numbers to pre-pandemic numbers. At the same time, we need legislation to further improve and support the Peace Corps, and honor the service of nearly a quarter-million volunteers.
Our key issues include the following:
The Peace Corps Reauthorization Act (Pending)
While a National Peace Corps Association priority over the past four years, this legislation has not yet been introduced in the new, 119th Congress. Content of this legislation will likely be re-considered, and it is possible this legislation will be re-introduced later in 2025.
In 2022, during the closing days of the 117th Congress, we came very close to passing legislation that would have resulted in the first comprehensive reauthorization of the Peace Corps in more than twenty years.
In the previous (118th) Congress, the Peace Corps Reauthorization Act was re-introduced in the Senate (S.1203) and also in the House (H.R. 1273). Both bills had a bi-partisan list of House and Senate co-sponsors. The legislation contained provisions addressing volunteer health and safety, federal employment enhancements for returning volunteers, strategies to build up the Peace Corps’ presence in the Indo-Pacific region, and more.
Funding for the Peace Corps
While specific legislation changes over the years, one constant component of our advocacy involves supporting strong funding for the Peace Corps. Peace Corps funding during Fiscal Year 2024 was $430.5 million. Congress continues to work on funding for the current fiscal year (FY 2025), as a March 14th deadline for action nears.
Though later than the traditional timeline, Congress is expected to begin turning its attention on funding for Fiscal Year 2026, which begins on October 1st. While we await for the Trump administration’s funding request, we are preparing for the possibility that a funding cut – possibly a significant funding cut – will be recommended. At this time we are asking members of Congress to hold the line, and support no less than the current, $430.5 million for the Peace Corps in FY 2026.
Use these links for our current Peace Corps funding background document, and our leave behind document which can be shared with congressional offices.
Support Public Service Loan Forgiveness
In the House of Representatives, RPCV Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA) this year introduced the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps Student Loan Forgiveness Act (H.R. 7457). As many recent college graduates answered the call to serve others, they should be provided full participation and recognition in the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Read more here. Then, help us build support for this meaningful legislation.
Diversity in the State Department
As the Peace Corps is receiving praise for its plans to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion among its ranks, and as the Peace Corps community considers how to assist in these efforts, legislation in the House of Representatives calls for sustained and systemic reforms in our diplomatic ranks.
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