Sam Farr Peace Corps Enhancement Act

Sam Farr Peace Corps Enhancement Act

This bill increases the monthly pay rate for Peace Corps volunteers.

The Peace Corps shall provide initial medical care to a former volunteer for a service-related condition for 180 days after termination of service, which may be extended under specified circumstances.

The bill grants the government jurisdiction over, and imposes penalties upon, persons who commit certain crimes outside of the United States against a volunteer.

The bill sets forth provisions regarding the use of mefloquine and other anti-malaria drugs, including appropriate medical officer training.

The Peace Corps Act is amended to authorize the designation of a position as a critical management support position if the position requires specialized technical or professional skills and knowledge of Peace Corps operations. An appointment may not exceed five years.

The President shall ensure that each overseas post has appropriate medical services, including by detailing to such a post the licensed medical staff of other U.S. agencies.

Each volunteer applicant shall be provided with information regarding crime and health risks and volunteer satisfaction with respect to the country in which the applicant has been invited to serve.

The Office of Victim Advocacy in Peace Corps headquarters is made permanent.

The bill: (1) expands membership of the Sexual Assault Advisory Council from 8 to up to 14 members, (2) requires at least one council member to have mental health field expertise, (3) extends the council through October 1, 2023, and (4) requires the council to establish an email address to permit volunteers and former volunteers to communicate directly and confidentially with the council.

The President shall conduct annual volunteer surveys through September 30, 2023 (currently through September 30, 2018).

The Inspector General of the Peace Corps may hire an expert, consultant, or organization without regard to certain daily salary requirements.