Pelosi Hails Signing of Historic National Service Legislation

Washington, D.C. - Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today after the President signed into law the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act.

"The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act honors both the historic legislative accomplishments of Ted Kennedy and President Obama's pledge to ‘encourage a renewed spirit of national service for this and future generations.'

"By creating 175,000 new service opportunities - more than tripling the number of volunteers nationwide - and rewarding those who volunteer in their communities with an investment in their education, we are strengthening our neighborhoods and educating a talented workforce to compete and win in the global economy.  There is no better time to support and energize volunteerism to help our country get through this economic crisis, restore confidence and prepare our nation for the future.

"Thanks to the bipartisan efforts of many here in Congress, and the commitment and leadership of President Obama, the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act will launch a new era of public service that will provide a stronger nation for all Americans."