Dear Scouting Family,
Last week we shared an update regarding the recent agreement between Scouting America and the Pentagon. Since then, some additional details have been distributed by the National Council. The Heart of New England Council Key 3 has also had several conversations with members of the national leadership, including Roger Krone.
These updates and conversations have provided some clarity on what this continued partnership means for our movement. We want to pass along these details to ensure you have the most up to date and accurate information to support your Scouts and families.
First and most importantly, Scouting America will continue to welcome and serve all youth. That commitment remains unwavering.
What Is Not Changing
- Scouting America’s name, mission and commitment to the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
- Our eligibility requirements
Scouting will continue to welcome and serve all youth. - Our membership application and registration practices
No Scouts will be required to change units due to this agreement. - Our practices to safeguard youth
Existing practices are being reinforced to safeguard all youth.
Policy documents that clarify some of these practices are expected soon. - Our core commitment to developing leaders of character to live a life of impact and service.
What Is New
- Registration fees will be waived for children of active-duty, Guard, and Reserve families beginning June 1, 2026.
This is being funded through donations and individual membership fees will not be raised to make this possible. - A new Military Service merit badge will be introduced
This badge has been in development for some time and should be available in the Test Lab soon.
This badge will not be Eagle required. - The Citizenship in Society merit badge is being discontinued, as previously communicated
The lessons taught in this badge have long been a part of Scouting, learned through Patrol interactions and adult association.
They can continue to be incorporated into your unit program as Scoutmaster Minutes or group conversations. - Programmatic updates such as dissolving DEI committees are being made to align with the Executive Order.
What This Means for Heart of New England Council
Our day‑to‑day Scouting experience remains unchanged. Our Scouts are still learning, leading, serving, camping, and growing together. We remain committed to ensuring that every youth feels welcomed and supported in our programs, and we will continue to build a volunteer corps that reflects the vibrant communities we serve.
Thank you for your steady leadership and for everything you do to make Scouting a positive force in the lives of more than 4,000 young people each year.
Yours in Scouting,
Jason Pigg, Scout Executive/CEO
Dave Bosselait, Council President
Brian Anders, Council Commissioner
