This bill authorizes certain Purple Heart recipients to elect to transfer to one or more eligible dependents (e.g., a spouse or child) unused portions of such recipients’ entitlement to Post-9/11 GI Bill educational assistance. This authority specifically applies to veterans who are awarded the Purple Heart for service in the Armed Forces occurring on or after September 11, 2001, and who have been discharged or released from active service.Under the bill, the total number of months of entitlement transferred by a Purple Heart recipient may not exceed 36 months. Additionally, the Purple Heart recipient may modify or revoke any unused portion of the transferred entitlement by submitting written notice to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DOD).A transferred entitlement may not be treated as marital property or marital assets in divorce or other civil proceedings.The death of the Purple Heart recipient must not affect the use of the entitlement by the individual who receives the transferred entitlement.In the event of an overpayment of educational assistance, the Purple Heart recipient and the transferee of the entitlement must be held jointly and severally liable for the amount.The bill requires the VA and DOD to coordinate to facilitate the transfer of entitlements under the bill.
If enacted, HB 790 would directly influence veterans' educational benefits by expanding the criteria under which such benefits can be transferred. This change could potentially increase the number of family members who can access educational resources funded by these benefits, thereby enhancing their educational prospects and ultimately supporting their transition to civilian life. Moreover, it aligns with ongoing efforts to better serve veterans and facilitate their reintegration into society by acknowledging the role their families play in their success.
House Bill 790 seeks to amend title 38 of the United States Code to allow veterans who have received the Purple Heart after September 11, 2001, to transfer their unused Post-9/11 Educational Assistance benefits to eligible family members. This bill aims to provide greater flexibility and support for veterans and their families in utilizing educational opportunities, recognizing the sacrifices made by those who have served in the armed forces. By enabling the transfer of benefits, the bill acknowledges the importance of veteran support systems and addresses educational access for their dependents.
While HB 790 aims to extend educational benefits to a wider audience, discussions surrounding the bill may evoke opinions related to resource allocation and the long-term sustainability of the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Stakeholders may debate the implications of allowing transfers, particularly concerning fairness and equity among veterans. Furthermore, concerns may arise regarding whether this expansion could lead to a dilution of the original intent of the educational assistance program, which was designed primarily for veterans themselves rather than their dependents.
Armed Forces and National Security