PolicyBrief
H.RES. 403
119th CongressMay 9th 2025
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that public servants should be commended for their dedication and continued service to the United States during Public Service Recognition Week and throughout the year.
IN COMMITTEE

This resolution expresses the sense of the House of Representatives commending public servants and uniformed service members for their dedication throughout the year, particularly during Public Service Recognition Week.

Gerald Connolly
D

Gerald Connolly

Representative

VA-11

LEGISLATION

House Resolution Designates May 4-10, 2025, as Public Service Recognition Week to Honor Government Workers

This resolution is a straightforward, non-binding declaration from the House of Representatives that officially designates the week of May 4 through May 10, 2025, as Public Service Recognition Week. Essentially, it’s a formal, public thank you note to the millions of people who work for the government—federal, state, and local—as well as members of the uniformed services. The core purpose is to commend these public servants for their dedication and continued service to the United States and the communities they serve.

The People Behind the Services

Since this is a resolution of sentiment and not a piece of legislation that changes laws or budgets, its real-world impact is primarily symbolic: recognition and morale. The text specifically calls out the incredibly wide range of jobs these individuals do, reminding us that public service isn't just one thing. It includes the folks delivering your mail, securing transportation systems, fighting fires, teaching in public schools, enforcing fair employment laws, and helping communities recover after a hurricane or flood. For the average person, this resolution acknowledges that the infrastructure of daily life—from safe roads to clean water to national defense—relies on these dedicated workers.

A Nod to the Front Lines

The resolution spends significant time detailing the contributions of uniformed services and civilian government employees, noting they are often "on the front lines protecting homeland security and defending the ideals of the United States." This is an important recognition for people who often face high-stress, high-stakes jobs, whether they are working in a VA hospital, coding software for a defense agency, or serving overseas. By designating this week, the House aims to boost the visibility of these essential roles and honor those who have tragically lost their lives while serving their communities and the country.

Encouraging the Next Generation

Beyond recognition, the resolution also encourages efforts to promote and celebrate careers in public service at every level of government. For someone aged 25-45 considering a career change or just starting out, this is a signal that public service is valued. Whether you’re a software developer tired of the corporate grind or a recent college graduate looking for stable, mission-driven work, this resolution serves as a public endorsement of that career path. It’s the political equivalent of saying, “We see you, we appreciate you, and we need more people like you.” Since this is a non-binding resolution, there are no new costs, regulations, or immediate changes to existing laws—it’s purely an expression of gratitude for vital work.