Bills
| 3.23.22

Supporting Professional Social Work Month and World Social Work Day (H. Res. 519)

Do you support or oppose this bill?

What is H. Res. 519?

(Updated November 14, 2014)

This resolution supports the goals and ideals of both Professional Social Work Month and Social Work Day. The resolution's details may be found below. 

Argument in favor

Social workers are overworked, underpaid, and unsung heroes of American society.

Argument opposed

Might as well wait a year; March was Professional Social Work Month, and this failed to get a vote.

Impact

As this is a resolution (akin to a statement of belief) and not a bill, it illustrates position but seeks to take no further action.

Cost of H. Res. 519

No significant impact on the federal budget.

Additional Info

Of Note:

According to CNN, the average annual salary for a social worker is $43,200. 

In Detail: 

The resolution's full text is as follows: 

Whereas the primary mission of the social work profession is to enhance human well-being and help meet the basic needs of all people, especially the most vulnerable in society; 

Whereas social work pioneers helped lead the Nation's struggle for social justice; 

Whereas social workers know that poverty and trauma can create lifelong social and economic disadvantages; 

Whereas social workers know that discrimination of any kind limits human potential and must be eliminated; 

Whereas social workers stand up for individuals and support diverse families in every community; 

Whereas social workers help people in every stage of life function better in their environments, improve their relationships with others, and solve personal and family problems; 

Whereas all children have the right to safe environments and quality education; Whereas dignity and care giving for older adults help define a Nation's character; 

Whereas veterans and their families need community support to ensure successful transitions after service; 

Whereas access to mental health treatment and health care services saves millions of lives; 

Whereas social workers are change agents who put the ideals of citizenship into action every day; 

Whereas social workers believe in shared prosperity and opportunity for everyone; 

Whereas social work research and advocacy turn community needs into national priorities; 

Whereas social workers celebrate the courage, hope, and strength of the human spirit throughout their careers; 

and Whereas March is recognized as Professional Social Work Month and World Social Work Day is recognized on March 18, 2014: 

Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives-- (1) supports the goals and ideals of Professional Social Work Month and World Social Work Day; (2) acknowledges the diligent efforts of individuals and groups who promote the importance of social work and observe Professional Social Work Month and World Social Work Day; (3) encourages individuals to engage in appropriate ceremonies and activities to promote further awareness of the life-changing role that social workers play; and (4) recognizes with gratitude the contributions of the millions of caring individuals who have chosen to serve their communities through social work.