An Act to amend 36.27 (2) (b) 4., 36.27 (3n) (a) 1m. a., 36.27 (3n) (a) 1m. b., 36.27 (3n) (bd), 36.27 (3p) (a) 1r. (intro.), 38.24 (7) (a) 1m. a., 38.24 (7) (a) 1m. b., 38.24 (7) (bd), 38.24 (8) (a) 1r. (intro.) and 39.49 (2) (a) 2. of the statutes; Relating to: tuition and fee remission or grants for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System, a technical college, or a private nonprofit institution of higher education; and the University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption for certain veterans. (FE)
Impact
The impact of SB640 on Wisconsin state laws is multifaceted. By amending existing statutes, the bill allows veterans and their dependents who were not residents of the state for the previous five years to be eligible for tuition remission if they have lived in Wisconsin for three consecutive years. This shortens the path for veterans and their families to receive financial assistance for their education, potentially leading to an increase in enrollment from this demographic. Furthermore, it may enhance opportunities for veterans transitioning into civilian life by encouraging education and skill development.
Summary
Senate Bill 640 modifies the residency requirements related to tuition and fee remission for certain veterans and their families at University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges. The bill aims to extend educational benefits to those who have served in the military by decreasing the required residency duration from five years to three years for veterans and their spouses and children. This change is significant as it allows more veterans, who may not have lived in Wisconsin for long periods prior to military service, to access educational benefits under the tuition remission program.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB640 could arise from debates over the broader implications of reducing residency requirements. Proponents argue that the bill promotes equity and support for veterans who return to their home state after service, making education more accessible. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the potential costs to the state in terms of educational funding and whether such changes might dilute the benefits intended for long-term residents of Wisconsin. As the bill moves through the legislative process, these discussions will be vital in shaping its final form.
Crossfiled
An Act to amend 36.27 (2) (b) 4., 36.27 (3n) (a) 1m. a., 36.27 (3n) (a) 1m. b., 36.27 (3n) (bd), 36.27 (3p) (a) 1r. (intro.), 38.24 (7) (a) 1m. a., 38.24 (7) (a) 1m. b., 38.24 (7) (bd), 38.24 (8) (a) 1r. (intro.) and 39.49 (2) (a) 2. of the statutes; Relating to: tuition and fee remission or grants for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System, a technical college, or a private nonprofit institution of higher education; and the University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption for certain veterans. (FE)