Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB333

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/22/23
• Refer: 6/22/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Technical college fees covered by the Wisconsin GI Bill. (FE)

Impact

If enacted, AB333 will significantly enhance the financial support available to veterans and their families by covering additional costs associated with their education at technical colleges. By expanding the definition of covered fees to include those associated with student activities and incidental necessities, the bill is positioned to lower the financial barriers faced by veterans during their educational pursuits. This amendment reflects a commitment to assist those who served in the armed forces by facilitating their transition into civilian education and workforce roles.

Summary

Assembly Bill 333 aims to amend and expand the benefits provided under the Wisconsin GI Bill to include full remission of certain final fees concerning technical colleges. Currently, veterans and certain dependents who receive assistance through the Wisconsin GI Bill are already eligible for tuition remission at both the University of Wisconsin System and Technical College System, but they are excluded from fees categorized as student activity and incidental fees. This bill addresses that gap by requiring technical colleges to remit these additional fees for eligible individuals, thus enhancing support for veterans pursuing vocational education.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue that it is a crucial step towards acknowledging the sacrifices made by veterans and facilitating their educational opportunities, some lawmakers may question the fiscal implications of expanding fee remission. Concerns could arise regarding the budget consequences at the state and college levels when differing opinions about prioritizing funding for veterans compared to other educational needs are debated. Nevertheless, the overarching intent is to provide equitable support to veterans which many advocates view as essential.