Provides for a tuition waiver for certain disabled veterans (EN DECREASE SG RV See Note)
Impact
This bill, once signed into law, will amend existing statutes to include a clause for tuition exemptions specifically for disabled veterans. The bill stipulates that eligible veterans must maintain full-time enrollment in educational programs and adhere to the academic standards set by their institutions. The waiver remains valid for a maximum of ten semesters or equivalent units. This initiative is expected to foster further enrollment among veterans in higher education, potentially improving their career prospects and overall economic standing.
Summary
House Bill 167 aims to provide a tuition and fee waiver for certain disabled veterans who are enrolled in approved educational programs at public postsecondary institutions. This legislation specifically targets disabled veterans who do not qualify for 100% federal educational benefits under the Veterans Affairs guidelines. The bill mandates that the waiver amount is calculated after considering the federal benefits that the veterans have received, ensuring that these individuals receive the necessary financial support to afford their educational expenses.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 167 appears to be positive, particularly from veteran advocacy groups and educational institutions that support enhanced access to education for veterans. The absence of opposition during the voting process, which passed unanimously in the Senate with a vote of 36-0, indicates widespread legislative support for measures that benefit disabled veterans. Legislators and community members are largely in favor of initiatives that address the educational needs of veterans as a means of gratitude for their service.
Contention
While the bill enjoys support, some concerns were raised regarding the funding for these waivers and how they might affect the budget for educational institutions. The potential impact on state revenues and the subsequent adjustments in funding for public education have been discussed, although no substantial opposition has emerged. Lawmakers have emphasized the importance of ensuring that the educational opportunities for veterans do not come at the expense of other education funding priorities or lead to financial shortfalls for postsecondary institutions.
Creates the "Missouri Disabled Veterans' Dependents Tuition Waiver" to provide college tuition waivers for the children, stepchildren, and spouses of certain veterans
Creates the "Missouri Disabled Veterans' Dependents Tuition Waiver" to provide college tuition waivers for the children, stepchildren, and spouses of certain veterans
Creates the "Missouri Disabled Veterans' Dependents Tuition Waiver" to provide college tuition waivers for the children, stepchildren, and spouses of certain veterans