Peace Corps Volunteers Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025

# Peace Corps Volunteers Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025 (HR 5521) **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would authorize Congress to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Peace Corps volunteers. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors Congress can bestow. If passed, it would recognize the contributions and service of Peace Corps volunteers—American citizens who have served in the Peace Corps, a federal agency that sends volunteers abroad to work on development projects in education, health, infrastructure, and other areas. **Who It Affects and Current Status** The medal would honor all past and current Peace Corps volunteers who have served since the organization's founding in 1961.

The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Betty McCollum (D-MN). A Congressional Gold Medal is primarily symbolic and honorific; it does not provide direct financial benefits but represents official recognition of service and achievement.