Education, National Guard, to limit amount of private tuition reimbursed to eligible guard members, Secs. 31-10-20 to 31-10-25, inclusive, repealed; Secs. 31-10-2, 31-10-3, 31-10-4.1 am'd.
Impact
The legislation is expected to have a significant impact on state laws concerning veterans' educational benefits. By setting a uniform cap for private institution reimbursements and specifying eligibility criteria, SB263 attempts to ensure that funds are distributed efficiently and equitably to those who serve in the National Guard. Furthermore, this bill clarifies that only one degree may be claimed for reimbursement purposes, which could impact many service members who are pursuing multiple levels of education.
Summary
SB263 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending existing laws related to educational benefits for qualified active members of the Alabama National Guard. The bill seeks to extend tuition reimbursement to service members who are dually or concurrently enrolled in high school and college programs. It also proposes a cap on reimbursements for private college tuition, restricting it to the maximum rates charged by the highest public institution in Alabama. This aims to streamline and clarify the financial support provided to Guard members seeking higher education.
Contention
Notably, there has been some discussion regarding potential disparities in access to educational benefits based on the cap for private institutions. Some stakeholders may argue that the limitation could disadvantage those attending private colleges that charge more than the public tuition cap. Furthermore, the bill reiterates the requirement for members to maintain good standing within the National Guard, which raises concerns about eligibility related to academic performance and service commitment. These aspects may create contention among service members, educational institutions, and lawmakers focused on the equitable treatment of military personnel.
Alabama Commission on Higher Education and ReEngage Alabama Grant Program, minimum age of an adult learner decreased from 25 to 22; definition of eligible student expanded
Physicians, rural physicians income tax credit, existing law repealed and replaced with new income tax credit after December 31, 2024, new credit increased to $10,000 per year for four years, transition provisions
Wage credits modified and reimbursement provided, general fund transfers authorized, unemployment insurance aid provided, report required, and money appropriated.
Provides relative to reimbursement to public postsecondary education institutions for dual enrollment programs and remedial education courses (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)
Relating to the Alabama National Guard; to amend Sections 31-10-2, 31-10-3, and 31-10-4.1, Code of Alabama 1975, relating to educational benefits for qualified active members; to limit the amount of private tuition reimbursed to eligible guard members to the median tuition of any public institution in the state; to clarify the law relating to undergraduate and graduate credentials; and to repeal Article 2, commencing with Section 31-10-20, of Chapter 10, Title 31, Code of Alabama 1975, relating to supplemental educational assistance benefits.