The Civic Resilience and Dialogue Model Act strengthens democratic resilience by supporting voluntary, nonpartisan civic dialogue, leadership development, and conflict-resolution programs. The Act establishes a bipartisan commission and a competitive grant program to fund local initiatives, with a focus on youth leadership and community problem-solving. Participation is voluntary, viewpoint-neutral, and designed to reduce polarization through skill-building rather than ideology.

Key Provisions

• Voluntary, Nonpartisan Participation. Ensures all programs are optional and administered without partisan or ideological bias.

  Civic Resilience Commission. Establishes a bipartisan body to guide best practices, oversight, and constitutional compliance.

  Competitive Grant Program. Funds local civic dialogue, leadership, and conflict-resolution initiatives through a transparent process.

  Youth Civic Leadership Focus. Prioritizes experiential civic education and leadership development for young people.

  Viewpoint Neutrality Safeguards. Prohibits compelled speech, mandatory participation, or partisan advocacy.

  Public Reporting and Accountability. Requires annual reporting on activities, participation, and outcomes.

Model Language

Section 1. Purpose and Intent.

(a) The legislature finds that democratic institutions function best when residents possess the skills to engage constructively across differences, participate in civic life, and resolve disputes peacefully.

(b) The purpose of this Act is to strengthen civic resilience by supporting voluntary, nonpartisan programs that promote dialogue, leadership development, civic participation, and institutional trust.

(c) Nothing in this Act shall be construed to mandate participation, compel speech, endorse any political viewpoint, or regulate the content of expression.

Section 2. Definitions. As used in this Act:

(a) “Civic dialogue” means structured, voluntary engagement designed to promote respectful communication and problem solving across differing perspectives.

(b) “Eligible entity” means a public school, institution of higher education, nonprofit organization, local government, or other entity designated by the administering agency.

(c) “Nonpartisan” means not affiliated with, controlled by, or promoting any political party, candidate, or ballot measure.

(d) “Administering agency” means the state agency designated to implement and oversee this Act.

Section 3. Establishment of the Civic Resilience Commission.

(a) A Civic Resilience Commission is established.

(b) The Commission shall consist of an odd number of members appointed by the Governor and legislative leadership from different political parties, reflecting geographic and ideological diversity.

(c) Members shall serve staggered terms and receive no compensation other than reimbursement for reasonable expenses.

(d) The Commission shall:

(1) Develop best practices for voluntary civic dialogue and leadership programs;

(2) Advise the administering agency on grant criteria and evaluation;

(3) Ensure viewpoint neutrality and constitutional compliance;

(4) Issue an annual public report on activities and outcomes.

Section 4. Civic Resilience Grant Program.

(a) The administering agency shall establish a competitive grant program for eligible entities offering voluntary, nonpartisan civic engagement initiatives.

(b) Grant-funded activities may include:

(1) Civic dialogue and conflict-resolution training;

(2) Leadership development for students, educators, public servants, or community leaders;

(3) Programs increasing understanding of local governance and civic institutions;

(4) Community-based problem-solving initiatives.

(c) Grant funds shall not be used for partisan political activity or mandatory participation.

Section 5. Youth Civic Leadership and Education.

(a) Priority may be given to programs supporting youth civic leadership and experiential learning tied to public service or local government.

(b) Participation shall be voluntary and shall not require endorsement of any political or ideological viewpoint.

Section 6. Viewpoint Neutrality and Voluntary Participation Safeguards.

(a) All programs funded under this Act shall be administered in a viewpoint-neutral manner.

(b) Participation by individuals or institutions shall be voluntary.

(c) No person shall be penalized or disadvantaged for choosing not to participate.

Section 7. Reporting and Accountability.

(a) Grant recipients shall submit annual reports detailing program activities, participation levels, and use of funds.

(b) The administering agency shall publish a consolidated annual report excluding personally identifiable information.

Section 8. Rulemaking Authority. The administering agency may adopt rules necessary to implement this Act, including grant procedures, evaluation criteria, and constitutional safeguards.

Section 9. Severability. If any provision of this Act is held invalid, the remaining provisions shall remain in effect.
Section 10. Effective Date. This Act shall take effect on [insert date].

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