Issue Position: Veterans Education Benefits

Issue Position

On June 19, 2008, the House passed H.R. 2642, Iraq and Afghanistan Supplemental Appropriations, which will fund the immediate needs of our troops, address unemployment across the country, and enhance the education benefits for our veterans who have served in the Global War on Terror.

After objectionable tax increases on individuals and small businesses were removed, I supported this bill as an appropriate and necessary support of our active-duty military and veterans.

As a veteran and user of the GI education benefits, I know the importance of supporting the education and job training of our veterans. In 1944, the original GI Bill paid up to $500 a year for tuition, books, fees, plus a monthly allowance of $50 or more to avoid high unemployment following WWII and to help the individual readjust to civilian life. Over 7 million veterans took advantage of these benefits. Subsequent similar programs were available for Korean and Vietnam veterans. In 1985, Montgomery GI benefits program was created for adjustment to civilian life and in an attempt to recruit and retain qualified military personnel.
With the cost of higher education increasing, benefits have slowly covered less and less. This bill will return benefits to a level akin to those offered under the original GI Bill.

Members of the military, including reservists and National Guard, who have served at least three months on active duty since September 11, 2001, may be eligible for enhanced tuition assistance, housing allowance, book and supply stipend, tutorial assistance, and payments toward licensure and certification tests.

In addition to strengthening education benefits, this bill provides over $1.2 billion for military hospitals and Veterans medical facilities.

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