SRES-412-116
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Voice Vote. (consideration: CR S6485; text: CR S6480-6481)
Sponsored by John Cornyn (R-TX)
What it does
This Senate resolution expresses the Senate's support for designating November 4–8, 2019, as "National Family Service Learning Week." It recognizes family service learning — a multigenerational, community-focused approach to civic participation — as valuable, and encourages the public to support related programs. The resolution does not create law, appropriate funds, or establish any government program.
Who benefits
Organizations and nonprofits that run family service learning programs may gain visibility and public awareness from the Senate's formal recognition. Families and children who participate in community service and civic engagement programs could see increased public interest and volunteerism directed toward those activities. Community development organizations may benefit from the symbolic endorsement.
Who is hurt
No specific group faces a direct negative effect from this resolution. Because it carries no legal force, imposes no mandates, and allocates no funds, there are no identifiable parties who are materially harmed.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that formal Senate recognition draws national attention to family service learning, a proven approach to building civic skills across generations. They contend that even symbolic acknowledgment by Congress can amplify awareness, encourage volunteerism, and inspire communities to invest time in multigenerational service programs. Proponents note that strengthening civic engagement at the community level contributes to a healthier democracy and that the resolution costs taxpayers nothing while potentially motivating broader participation in community development.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that symbolic resolutions like this one consume limited Senate floor time and legislative resources without producing any measurable policy outcome. They contend that if family service learning programs are genuinely valuable, Congress should demonstrate that commitment through substantive legislation — such as dedicated funding or program authorization — rather than a non-binding proclamation. Critics may also argue that the Senate's role is to legislate, and that commemorative resolutions, however well-intentioned, represent an inefficient use of the chamber's capacity.