Civilian Volunteer Service Reserve Act

H.R. 2724, the Civilian Volunteer Service Reserve Act, would create a federal program within the Department of Homeland Security designed to mobilize trained civilians for domestic or international emergencies. Under this bill, U.S. citizens and legal residents over the age of 18 could volunteer for a five-year commitment, which includes six months of full-time active duty service.

For participating citizens, the bill provides specific legal protections, including the right to return to their civilian jobs after serving and access to federal benefits during their active duty period. While the program is primarily voluntary, the bill allows the President to mandate mobilization for members of the Reserve under extreme circumstances to ensure a rapid response to national crises.