Representatives Don Bacon, Chrissy Houlahan, and Doris Matsui have introduced the Protect National Service Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to prevent federal funds from being used to implement cuts to AmeriCorps, thereby protecting the agency’s core functions.
The introduction of this bill follows a bipartisan letter sent by the three representatives, along with Republican Representative Brian Fitzpatrick, to the White House on April 11. The letter urged President Trump to collaborate with Congress on any proposed reforms to AmeriCorps rather than pursue executive actions independently.
The legislation responds to reports that the Trump Administration is planning significant workforce reductions at AmeriCorps, starting with its disaster relief efforts. Recently, AmeriCorps members working in North Carolina on Hurricane Helene recovery were recalled ahead of an expected termination date of April 30.
Rep. Bacon expressed his concerns about the administration’s approach: “While I am supportive of President Trump’s mission of cutting the size and cost of the federal government, I am deeply troubled that once again, they are using a sledgehammer approach on vital programs such as Americorps.”
Rep. Houlahan criticized the administration’s actions: “I am horrified that the Trump Administration is attempting to gut AmeriCorps. National service brings together Americans across political divides, uplifts communities, and is a terrific return on investment for the federal government.”
Congresswoman Matsui emphasized the value of AmeriCorps: “Let me be clear: dismantling AmeriCorps is an indefensible attack on some of our most patriotic and selfless young Americans… Now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk want to tear down three decades of progress — without justification and without a plan.”
The representatives argue that for every dollar invested in AmeriCorps by Congress, there is a return of over $17 in economic and community benefits.
