Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB239

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/28/23
• Refer: 4/28/23
• Report Pass: 2/14/24
• Refer: 2/14/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Tuition and fee remission for eligible veterans' spouses and children enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System or a technical college. (FE)

Impact

By expanding the definition of 'eligible veteran', AB239 will have a significant impact on the state's educational benefits landscape. The proposed changes to the statute would allow more families of current and retired military personnel to access financial assistance for education, which is critical in promoting higher education among this demographic. As a result, it is expected that universities and technical colleges may see an increase in enrollments from military families seeking these benefits.

Summary

Assembly Bill 239 aims to expand the definition of 'eligible veteran' for the tuition and fee remission program for the spouses and children of eligible veterans attending the University of Wisconsin System and technical colleges. The bill allows the inclusion of individuals who have served on active duty for 20 or more years and continue to be on active duty just before their spouse or child registers for any academic semester. This change seeks to support the families of long-serving military personnel by broadening eligibility for these educational financial benefits.

Contention

However, there may be points of contention surrounding the implications of this bill. Some stakeholders might argue that expanding benefits could lead to financial strains on educational funding resources. Others may express concern about the criteria for residency requirements and how applying the changes could complicate the determination of eligibility. The balance between supporting veterans and managing state resources is likely to prompt discussions among legislators and the community.