March 2, 2026

HOVC Scouting Family:

I just wanted to update you on the most recent details we received over the weekend related to the Executive Order 14173 and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by Roger Krone, CEO of Scouting America with the Department of War. The MOU must still be signed by the Secretary of War, so the full document has not been released. This will be an annual agreement. National Scouting America will be coming out with some FAQ related information. As our CEO stated, we will follow the law because in our Scout Oath we teach Duty to Country and in our Scout Law, we teach a Scout is obedient to the laws of the land.

1. 1. Scouting America will continue to welcome all youth into our program.
   2. Birth Certificates will not be required when registering.
   3. Our Scout Oath, Scout Law, and Mission have not changed.
   4. Nationally, the DEI Committee will be combined with the People and Culture Committee. The new committee will deal with outreach.
   5. Citizenship in Society Merit Badge has been discontinued. If a Scout has started that badge they have until December 31, 2026, to complete it. If a Scout has not started that badge they cannot earn it effective February 27, 2026.
   6. The Department of War will continue to support Scouting America at the Jamboree, on bases throughout the USA and overseas.
   7. Active-Duty Military will have the national registration fee waived beginning June 1, 2026. This is only the national registration fee. National Scouting America will fundraise to offset the cost so the national registration fees will not be increased to offset the change.
   8. Scouting America will work with the Department of War to create a new merit badge centered around the Military Services. Details to follow on that badge timeline.
   9. Each Council must be in compliance with the National Scouting America office and Executive Order 14173, or this could jeopardize the organization.

Finally, the video release by the Secretary of War was released without knowledge of Scouting America, and we all saw it at the same time. There are some inaccuracies in the video, but as stated National Scouting America will release more details to support council communications.

George M. McGovern
Scout Executive

Additional Information

2/27/2026 Scouting America Statement Concerning Department of War Announcement

2/27/2026 Discontinuance of the Citizenship in Society Merit Badge