Washington, D.C. - Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing the Strengthen AmeriCorps Program Act of 2003, to strengthen the Corporation for National and Community Service's AmeriCorps program. This bill will not only address the Corporation's recent accounting problems, but more importantly, it will protect and expand volunteer service opportunities in my State of Maryland and across our Nation. It is identical to S. 1276, which the Senate passed yesterday. S. 1276 was introduced by Senator Christopher Bond of Missouri and my colleague from Maryland, Senator Barbara Mikulski, and I appreciate their leadership. We must act now to save this important program.
The President has asked every American to volunteer in their communities and has made the AmeriCorps program a central vehicle in meeting volunteer needs. The AmeriCorps program can play an important and effective role in improving the lives of many Americans and communities it serves.
But I have heard from many of my constituents who are concerned about the potential cuts to the AmeriCorps program. If we fail to act, next year's Maryland program will be slashed from 452 AmeriCorps members to 52 members. Nationwide the number of AmeriCorps members will be radically cut as well.
Maryland's 8th District, which I am proud to represent, has a highly successful AmeriCorps program, Project CHANGE. Project CHANGE was developed in conjunction with the President of Montgomery College, Charlene Nunley, the Superintendent of Schools for Montgomery County, Jerry Weast, and leaders from the County's non-profit, immigrant and business communities. If we don't act, it is likely that Montgomery County will lose Project CHANGE together with the great work that its 20 AmeriCorps members are performing on behalf of our neediest students and families.