Luján, Lummis Applaud House Passage of Bipartisan Congressional Award Reauthorization Act

Washington, D.C.- U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) applauded the Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act passing the U.S. House of Representatives, as it now goes to the president to be signed into law. This bill reauthorizes the board that administers the Congressional Award Program through FY2028. The Congressional Award is the highest honor bestowed by Congress for our nation's youth ages 14 to 24, encouraging young Americans to unleash their potential by achieving personal goals focused on volunteerism, character, development, exploration, and fitness.

"The Congressional Award Program has inspired thousands of young Americans to challenge themselves, build valuable skills, and give back to their communities through countless hours of volunteer service," said Luján. "I am proud to have worked with Senator Lummis to pass this bipartisan legislation reauthorizing the Congressional Award Act, ensuring the program continues to inspire young people in New Mexico and across the nation to serve their communities."

"The Congressional Award has a rich history with the state of Wyoming, and I am proud to continue supporting this program that inspires our nation's youth to serve selflessly and dutifully," said Lummis. "Wyoming Senator Malcolm Wallop helped found this wonderful tradition in 1979, and more than four decades later, we continue to see the success and prosperity of the young Americans who choose to participate and serve their communities. I want to thank Senator Luján for his critical role in getting this bipartisan legislation across the finish line, and I am pleased to see it now headed to President Trump's desk."

Click here to read the bill text.

About the Congressional Award Program:

• As the United States Congress' only non-profit and highest honor for youth civilians, the Congressional Award program was started by late Wyoming Senator Malcolm Wallop in 1979, and Senator Lummis is proud to carry on his legacy by serving on the national board of directors.
• To achieve a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Congressional Award Certificate or Medal, each participant sets and achieves challenging goals in four program areas: voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition/exploration.
• Medals are presented by members of the House and Senate, with the Gold Medal Ceremony/Summit taking place each June at a Ceremony in the U.S. Capitol.
• The Congressional Award is a public-private partnership.
• Although created by Congress, the Congressional Award program is funded entirely through private-sector donations.
• Congress provides in-kind support, including office space, the medals from the U.S. Mint and the audit oversight by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).
• There are currently more than 50,000 youth enrolled throughout the country and reside in every congressional district.

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