To make an appropriation to support higher education institutions that are members of the Ohio Veterans Education Council.
Summary
HB95 is an appropriations bill that provides state funding to support higher education institutions participating in the Ohio Veterans Education Council. It creates a General Revenue Fund appropriation of $1,144,000 in fiscal year 2026 and the same amount in fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Higher Education, to be administered by the Chancellor of Higher Education. The bill directs those funds toward a set of veterans- and military-student support activities at member colleges and universities.
The bill specifically authorizes funding for student awards for Military Community Advocates, grants to help campus military and veterans offices grow private philanthropy, and travel support for staff to attend the National Veterans Leadership Foundation’s Advancement Institute. It also allows remaining funds to be used for administrative support of the National Veterans Leadership Foundation, a website connecting veterans to programs at member institutions, administration of membership and Ohio Purple Star status, information sharing, and other related expenses approved by the Chancellor in consultation with the Foundation.
Impact
HB95 would add a new two-year GRF appropriation and direct the Chancellor of Higher Education to distribute and oversee the funds for veterans-focused services at Ohio higher education institutions. It does not amend substantive education or veterans statutes, but it does create a specific funding stream and administrative framework for campus military and veterans offices, Ohio Veterans Education Council membership activities, and related outreach and coordination efforts. The bill would affect the Department of Higher Education, participating public and private nonprofit colleges and universities, and students serving in Military Community Advocate roles.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests broad support at the committee level, with unanimous 12-0 votes on two House re-refer actions. No committee transcript is available, but the bill’s structure and purpose indicate a generally favorable posture toward veterans’ educational support and campus services. The absence of recorded opposition in the provided materials suggests little visible controversy at this stage.
Contention
The main potential points of contention are not reflected in the transcripts, but the bill’s use of state funds for a mix of direct student awards, grants, travel support, and administrative costs could raise questions about allocation priorities and oversight. Another possible issue is the role of the National Veterans Leadership Foundation in administering or supporting several funded activities, including the website, membership administration, and philanthropy-related grants. Any debate would likely center on whether the appropriation is appropriately targeted, how much should go to administration versus direct services, and how the Chancellor will evaluate outcomes.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
To amend sections 3505.01 and 3505.10 of the Revised Code to modify the deadline for a political party to certify its nominees for President and Vice-President to the Secretary of State.
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Makes General Fund supplemental appropriation of $350,000 to DMVA for Council on Armed Forces and Veterans' Affairs for preservation of military installations in case of base realignment and closure.