Service Starts At Home Act

The Service Starts At Home Act (HR 5308) provides federal funding to support local government internships for secondary and undergraduate students, and offers scholarships based on volunteer service hours. It authorizes $50 million annually (2026-2030) for competitive grants to states or local governments to create paid internships, requiring educational value and accommodations for interns. Additionally, it allocates $100 million annually for state-administered scholarships (up to $3,000 per year) to students who complete 100-250+ volunteer hours, with priority for renewal applicants, and allows funds to cover college costs of attendance. The bill directly affects students in public schools, colleges, and local governments, focusing on community engagement through structured programs rather than broad policy changes.