Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB12

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/14/24
• Refer: 2/14/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Tuition and fee remission or grants for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System, a technical college, or a private nonprofit institution of higher education; and the University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption for certain veterans. (FE)

Impact

The proposed changes in AB12 are expected to broaden the eligibility scope for veterans and their families, making it easier for them to access higher education opportunities in Wisconsin. By lowering the residency requirement from five to three years under certain conditions, the bill aims to support veterans who may have been displaced or stationed outside the state. This adjustment could potentially increase enrollment among veterans and their dependents at educational institutions across the state, thereby enhancing the educational landscape.

Summary

Assembly Bill 12 (AB12) proposes significant changes to the tuition and fee remission programs for veterans and their dependents within Wisconsin's higher education system. The bill specifically modifies residency requirements, allowing nonresident veterans and their families greater eligibility for tuition remission at public universities and technical colleges. Currently, a veteran must have been a Wisconsin resident upon entering military service or have resided in the state for at least five consecutive years before registering at a university. AB12 proposes to reduce this requirement to three years, facilitating access for veterans and aiding their transition to higher education.

Contention

The bill may face contention regarding how the changes could affect funding and resource allocation for state-funded institutions. Concerns can be raised about whether reducing residency requirements compromises the financial integrity of tuition remission programs and impacts the local taxpayer base. Additionally, discussions may emerge regarding the adequacy of current support services for veterans as the potential influx of new students could necessitate additional resources to accommodate them effectively.