February 28, 2026
Recently, many of you may have seen news reports and social media posts concerning a new agreement between the National Council of Scouting America and the Pentagon regarding Executive Order 14173. I learned about the details of this agreement at the same time as you, but I’d like to share what the National Council has confirmed thus far:
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- Scouting America will continue to welcome and serve all youth. This commitment is unchanged and firm.
- Registration fees for children of active-duty, Guard, and Reserve families will be waived beginning June 1st.
- A new Military Service merit badge will be introduced.
- To align with Executive Order 14173, the Citizenship in Society merit badge is retiring. However, the fundamentals of this badge – respect for others, understanding differences, and thoughtful citizenship – continue to be interwoven throughout the Scouting program, in the Scout Oath and Law, and through experiences Scouts have in their units, at camp, and in the community.
- The National Office will be making programmatic updates, such as dissolving the DEI committee, to comply with the Executive Order.
Roger Krone, the National Council C.E.O., reiterated the following components of our programs which are unchanged:
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- Scouting America’s name, mission, and commitment to the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
- Scouting will continue to welcome and serve all youth.
- Existing practices for member registration and in safeguarding youth remain in place.
As I receive more information from the National Council on this matter, I will share it with all of you promptly. Our focus at Greater New York Councils is to deliver safe, high-quality programs across NYC to all youth. We are committed to ensuring that every young person who would like to participate in Scouting feels welcomed and supported in our Council.
As we move forward, please know that our Scouting America New York City Board and staff are committed to serving and supporting all youth in our programs. We will continue to support all families and I am committed to ensuring that Scouting in New York City remains strong, responsive, and grounded in the mission of Scouting as it serves the unique needs of the youth of our City.
The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices throughout their lives by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
Please know that all of at the Greater New York Councils are so appreciative of all your support during this time.
Yours in Scouting,
Saroya Friedman-Gonzalez
President, CEO and Scout Executive
Scouting America, Greater New York Councils
Download a copy of the CEO’s Response Concerning Executive Order 14173