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GI Bill National Emergency Extended Deadline Act
5/11/2023, 3:43 PM
Summary of Bill HR 2167
The GI Bill provides education benefits to veterans who have served in the military, allowing them to pursue higher education or vocational training. However, during times of national emergencies, such as natural disasters or pandemics, veterans may face challenges in using their benefits within the allotted timeframe.
The GI Bill National Emergency Extended Deadline Act seeks to address this issue by extending the deadline for veterans to use their benefits during national emergencies. This extension would provide veterans with more flexibility and ensure that they are able to fully utilize their education benefits despite unforeseen circumstances. Overall, the bill aims to support veterans in their pursuit of education and training opportunities, particularly during times of national crisis. It is currently under consideration in Congress and may have a significant impact on the lives of veterans across the country.
Congressional Summary of HR 2167
GI Bill National Emergency Extended Deadline Act
This bill amends various provisions related to educational assistance benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
First, the bill extends the time limitation for using educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and for eligibility under the Veteran Readiness and Employment program, when educational institutions are temporarily or permanently closed due to an emergency situation or another reason that prevents an individual from participating.
Next, the bill requires the VA to disapprove of courses of education provided by public institutions of higher learning that charge higher tuition and fees than in-state tuition for individuals who are entitled to educational assistance under the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance program. The bill also makes adjustments to the time limitation for using educational assistance under this program.
The VA must implement an information technology service using one or more commercial software systems to process claims for VA educational assistance benefits.
Finally, the bill requires the Veterans' Employment and Training Service within the Department of Labor to implement a pilot program under which states may use grants or contracts to carry out a short-term fellowship program to provide veterans with opportunities for long-term employment.
