This was a vote on an amendment offered by Rep. Markey (D-CO) to the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act (“GIVE Act”), which provided federal funds for local community service organizations and volunteer efforts. The amendment increased funding for AmeriCorps and other national service organizations.

In support of her amendment, Rep. Markey noted that AmeriCorps “offers 75,000 opportunities for adults of all ages and backgrounds to serve through a network of partnerships with local and national nonprofit groups . . . Currently, organizations receive only $600 to support the individuals who are enrolled in full-time national service positions. This small amount helps to pay for operational and member support costs, including a living allowance. My amendment proposes an increase to that amount. In today's economy, these organizations are struggling. “

Rep. George Miller (D-CA), who favored the amendment, said it “will help such grantees as the Boys and Girls Club of America, the Student Conservation Association, and so many other organizations that are responsible for covering this cost. This will help them out in that effort. They clearly are putting their own resources into this program. This is the Federal Government (increasing its share) as a good partner . . . .”

The Republicans had made an unsuccessful effort to limit future funding authorized by the GIVE ACT, but did not renew their concerns about increased funding during deliberation of the Markey Amendment.

Rep. Markey’s amendment passed by a vote of 283-145. Two hundred and fifty-three Democrats and thirty Republicans voted “aye”. One hundred and forty-three Republicans and two Democrats voted “nay”. As a result, funding was increased for designated local community service organizations including AmeriCorps.