Michigan Senate Bill SB0542

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/11/25
• Refer: 9/11/25

Caption

Military affairs: other; tuition assistance for Michigan National Guard members; modify. Amends secs. 3 & 4 of 2014 PA 259 (MCL 32.433 & 32.434). TIE BAR WITH: SB 541'25, SB 540'25

Impact

The amendments propose a more structured approach to tuition assistance allocation, allowing the adjutant general to set annual tuition assistance amounts based on available funds. This change is important for ensuring that eligible individuals have reliable support for their educational goals, which includes vocational training, associate degrees, and bachelor's or master's degrees. It also enables family members of eligible personnel to benefit from assistance under certain conditions, thereby expanding access to educational opportunities within military families.

Summary

Senate Bill 542 amends the Michigan National Guard Tuition Assistance Act to enhance the support available to members of the Michigan National Guard pursuing higher education. This bill updates the existing provisions to ensure eligible members and their families can access tuition assistance for a variety of educational programs. The bill specifies the procedures for applying for assistance prior to or during enrollment in qualifying courses and emphasizes the role of the adjutant general in administering this program.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding this bill relates to the funding mechanisms for the tuition assistance program. The Michigan National Guard Tuition Assistance Fund is limited to a maximum balance of $15 million, with any excess funds reverting to the general fund. This raises concerns among some lawmakers regarding the sustainability of funding and whether it will adequately cover the growing demand for educational assistance among Guard members and their families. Furthermore, the requirement for reimbursement in cases where a recipient does not complete their course of study could be a point of debate regarding fairness and the impact on service members' educational progress.