U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam, Ranking Member of the Military and Foreign Affairs Oversight Subcommittee, led a bipartisan group of lawmakers in urging the Department of Defense to maintain its support for Scouting America, according to a March 16 statement.
The issue is significant because thousands of young Americans participate in Scouting America programs, and members of Congress say that federal law requires ongoing support from the military. The partnership between Scouting America and the Department of Defense has lasted for over a century, with many participants going on to serve in the military or achieve national distinction.
The group raised concerns after Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth released a video on February 27 stating that Scouting America was “officially put on notice” and outlining new requirements that would be evaluated after six months. In the video, Hegseth said the department was “very seriously considering ending our support of scouting altogether.” Lawmakers said they have not received a response to their previous letter sent on December 5, which highlighted the long-standing relationship between Scouting America and the military.
In their latest letter to Secretary Hegseth, Subramanyam and his colleagues wrote: “Our constituents and federal statute demand unconditional support for Scouting America, and we strongly urge the Department to continue this partnership beyond the six-month deadline. Cutting this partnership could impact the thousands of young Americans across our district who participate, and as President Trump himself said in 2017, the ‘United States has no better citizens than its Boy Scouts.'”
The letter also referenced historical ties between scouting and national leadership: “As noted in the social media video, six Scouts have been elected President. Eleven of the twelve people who walked on the moon were Scouts. Once again, we strongly urge you to continue the Department’s support of Scouting America.”
Representatives Bacon, Bishop, Goodlander, Horsford, and Walkinshaw joined Subramanyam in signing the letter. The lawmakers said they look forward to receiving a response from Secretary Hegseth.
