Kiggans Fights to Expand Military Recruitment

WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) introduced the Service Enlistment and Recruitment of Valuable Engagement (SERVE) Act to enhance military recruitment by promoting the benefits of service and expanding access for high school students. This bipartisan bill was introduced alongside Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Lance Gooden (TX-05), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and a companion bill has been introduced in the Senate by Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA). Specifically, this bill requires that public schools give recruiters meaningful access to all students across the country, ensuring that all high schoolers know the benefits that come with serving our great nation.

The SERVE Act is endorsed by The Navy League of the United States, With Honor, Blue Star Families, and Veterans for Mustangs.

“As a Navy veteran, I know firsthand the impact military service can have on someone’s life,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “America’s military is only as strong as the young men and women who step forward to serve. Right now, many students aren’t being provided information about the amazing opportunities and experiences military service can offer. The SERVE Act is about turning that around by reconnecting our youth with a powerful call to service and opening doors to leadership, education, and purpose. This bipartisan, bicameral bill sends a clear message that we believe in our next generation, and we’re ready to invest in their future and the future security of our nation.”

“For me, choosing to serve our country opened the door for the American Dream, allowed me to afford college, and paved the way for a life committed to service,” said Senator Ernst. “By increasing avenues to the benefits and pathways of a career in the military, we can unlock even more opportunities and brighter futures for our next generation. The call to service is loud and clear, and through the SERVE Act, our nation can bolster recruitment efforts and build the most lethal, efficient, and effective force in the world.”

“As someone who has proudly served in uniform, I understand the transformative power of military service,” said Congresswoman Houlahan. “The SERVE Act will ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to learn about the benefits and responsibilities of serving our nation. By enhancing access to military recruiters and expanding programs like JROTC, we’re not only strengthening our armed forces but also investing in the leadership potential of our youth.”

“The SERVE Act restores a culture of service and ensures that every young American can understand the benefits of military life,” said Congressman Gooden. “By giving recruiters meaningful access to our schools, we strengthen national security and give students a shot at purpose, higher education, and a future filled with opportunity.”

“Military recruitment faces many challenges that threaten the readiness of our armed forces,” said Congressman Panetta.“Our bipartisan, bicameral SERVE Act would help inform young Americans about the benefits of service. Connecting students with that type of opportunity is good for our community and country.”

You can find a one pager on this bill here.

You can find the full text of this bill here.

The SERVE Act would:

• Increase recruiter access in high schools

• Expand JROTC participation opportunities to students in schools without existing programs

• Designate high schools with above-average military enlistment rates as “HERO Schools”

• Prioritize service academy nominations from HERO Schools

• Establish a National Week of Military Recruitment to promote awareness and engagement

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