Ernst Works to Expand Military Recruitment

“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.”
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a combat veteran, introduced theService Enlistment and Recruitment of Valuable Engagement (SERVE)Actto enhance military recruitment by promoting the benefits of service and expanding access for high school students. Representatives Jen Kiggans (R-Va.), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), and Lance Gooden (R-Texas) are leading this bipartisan effort in the House of Representatives.
After reports that Army recruitment ismakinghistoric gains this year, the legislators are working to build on that progress and keep numbers up across the service branches.
“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 Joni Ernst, a combat veteran who served in the military for 23 years.“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 theSERVE Act, our nation can bolster recruitment efforts and build the most lethal, efficient, and effective force in the world.”
"America's military is only as strong as the young men and women who step forward to serve,”said Rep. Kiggans.“Right now, many students aren't being provided information about the amazing opportunities and experiences military service can offer. TheSERVE Actis 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.”
"As someone who has proudly served in uniform, I understand the transformative power of military service. TheSERVE Actwill 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. This bipartisan effort reflects our commitment to national security and to providing young Americans with pathways to personal and professional growth,"said Rep. Houlahan.
“TheSERVE Actrestores a culture of service and ensures that every young American can understand the benefits of military life. 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,”said Rep. Gooden.
Specifically, theSERVE Act:
Background:
Ernst has worked to support our military men and women receive the benefits they have earned, including byexposingthat the Biden administration’s student loan “cancellation” undermined G.I. benefits earned from service,holdingthe VA accountable for misusing taxpayer dollars,stoppingBig Tech from shadow banning military recruitment content, andensuringjunior servicemembers receive proportional pay raises to strengthen our nation’s fighting force.
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