Congressman Albio Sires and Congressman Garret Graves Reintroduce Bill Honoring Peace Corps Volunteers

Press Release

(Washington, D.C.) -- Today, Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ) and Congressman Garret Graves (R-LA), Co-Chair of the Congressional Peace Corps Caucus, reintroduced the Respect for Peace Corps Volunteers Act. They are joined by Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA), Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA). Rep. Cindy Axne (D-IA), Rep. James P. McGovern (D-MA), and Del. Michael F.Q. San Nicolas (D-GU) as original cosponsors.

"I am proud to once again introduce this important, common-sense legislation which will remove restrictions on the use of the Peace Corps logo for former volunteers," said Rep. Sires. "Thousands of New Jerseyans, and even more across our great country, have proudly served in the Peace Corps since its inception 60 years ago. Through my work on the Foreign Affairs Committee I have an opportunity to speak with volunteers and see first-hand the important contribution the Peace Corps makes to our global diplomatic efforts. The service and commitment shown by these volunteers displays the best of our country and has earned them the right to proudly display their insignia."

"Our Peace Corps volunteers make incredible commitments to help developing countries around the globe," said Rep. Graves. "Their mission is a powerful demonstration of America's values. Providing them this honor is justified based on their service to our country."

Current law prohibits the unauthorized use of the Peace Corps logo, even for memorial purposes, and carries the risk of a $500 fine or jail time. The Respect for Peace Corps Volunteers Act repeals the unnecessary barriers to allow former Peace Corps volunteers and staff the ability to display their service for memorial purposes. This common-sense, bipartisan bill is a simple fix that would allow former Peace Corps volunteers and staff to use the name and logo of the Peace Corps in an obituary or on their gravestone.

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