Klobuchar: New GI Bill to Offer Improved Education Benefits for Military Veterans

Press Release

Meets with Veterans and Minnesota National Guard officials Most comprehensive education benefits for veterans since World War II

U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar held a roundtable discussion with six student-veterans and representatives of the Minnesota National Guard at Minneapolis Community and Technical College today to discuss the education provisions in the new GI Bill. Klobuchar co-sponsored the new GI Bill, which passed last year and provides veterans with active duty service on or after September 11, 2001 with education benefits, a monthly living allowance and the ability to transfer unused benefits to a spouse or child. The bill went into effect on August 1st, 2009.

"There is no greater investment we can make in the future of our veterans than granting them the chance to pursue a higher education," said Klobuchar. "By providing these benefits, we truly honor their service and sacrifice and open up the path to opportunity and success in civilian life."

In the next decade, $78 billion is expected to be paid out under the new GI Bill, which is the most comprehensive education benefit offered since World War II.

At Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Klobuchar met with student veterans Liz Kuk, Craig Lavadiere, Asher Melena, Brian Ivester, Adam Rasche and Ann Guss. Also attending the roundtable were officials from the Minnesota National Guard, including Jon Dahl, Minnesota National Guard's State Education Services Officer.

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