Service Starts At Home Act

House Votes

This proposal aims to get more students involved in their communities. It would have the Education Department fund two things: paid internships in local government and college scholarships tied to volunteer service. Programs must start within one year after it becomes law, and the internships should be educational and, when possible, flexible for students who need childcare help, transportation, or telework options .

States and local governments could apply for grants to place high school and college students in paid roles at city, county, or other local offices. Grant recipients would set pay, select students, and cover the costs of the internships. Congress would authorize $50 million per year for these internships from 2026 through 2030 .

The bill would also fund scholarships for students who volunteer. States would receive money based on their public school enrollment, and they would award scholarships to students who complete at least 100 hours of volunteer work. Awards range from $1,000 to $3,000 per year, depending on hours served, and can be renewed for up to four years if the student keeps volunteering and stays in good academic standing. Scholarship money can only be used for college costs. Up to 20% of funds could go to a federal program that gives extra help, with priority for students who did not get a state award. Congress would authorize $100 million per year for these scholarships from 2026 through 2030 .

Schools and colleges could also be recognized for strong community service efforts.

• Who is affected: High school students (especially seniors), college students, states, local governments, and schools/colleges .
• What changes: Paid local government internships; scholarships of $1,000–$3,000 for volunteer hours; recognition for strong service programs; flexibility like telework and adjusted schedules for interns when possible .
• When: Programs must launch within one year after enactment; funding runs 2026–2030 .