West Virginia 2024 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB599

Introduced
1/30/24  

Caption

Exempting certain military veterans and their dependents from tuition

Impact

If enacted, SB599 will directly impact state laws regarding higher education funding, as it mandates state institutions to waive tuition and fees for specific groups of individuals related to military service. This legislation not only aims to honor the sacrifices made by service members and their families but also encourages their educational advancement by removing financial obstacles. The governing boards of educational institutions will be required to create rules for the implementation of these waivers, which could also affect budgeting and resource allocation within state educational institutions.

Summary

Senate Bill 599 aims to amend and reenact §18B-10-7 of the Code of West Virginia to provide exemptions from tuition and fees for certain military veterans and their dependents. The bill focuses on service members killed in action or those who have incurred significant disabilities as a result of their service. By expanding the tuition waiver to include dependents of veterans, the legislation emphasizes the state's commitment to supporting military families in their pursuit of higher education. This change is intended to ease the financial burdens associated with pursuing a college education for these individuals.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB599 appears to be generally positive, particularly within veteran advocacy groups and military families who view this bill as a significant step toward acknowledging their contributions and sacrifices. Supporters argue that the bill fosters educational opportunities for those who have served and faced hardships due to their service. However, there may be concerns raised about the financial implications of the bill on state budgets and the potential strain it could put on educational institutions to provide for the increased number of applicants benefiting from such waivers.

Contention

Some contention may arise regarding the details of eligibility and the funding mechanisms for the proposed tuition waivers. Questions could be raised about how the increased costs will be absorbed by state institutions and how they will manage an influx of eligible applicants. Additionally, there could be debates about the criteria established for determining disability ratings and the adequacy of support for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Such discussions highlight the need for a balanced approach that ensures support for veterans while maintaining the quality and availability of higher education resources for all students.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB3374

Relating generally to waivers from tuition and other costs and fees for certain resident veterans and their resident dependents

WV HB2968

Tuition and fee exemptions for service-connected Disabled Veterans and their dependents.

WV HB2211

Award military veterans with a “Veterans” license plate

WV HB2967

Expediting License Applications for active military members and veterans, and their spouses

WV HB3155

Providing educational benefits to veterans who commit to WV residency

WV HB2584

Allow homestead exemptions for disabled veterans

WV SJR2

Disabled Veterans' Exemption from Ad Valorem Property Taxation Amendment

WV HB2465

Increase access to and amount covered of the promise scholarship to ensure full ride regardless of tuition costs, double majors, or courses of interest

WV HB3386

To provide all National Merit Scholars free tuition to any West Virginia higher education institution in order to keep these scholars in state

WV SJR6

Homestead Exemption for Disabled Veterans Amendment

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.