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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Ken Smith |
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Smith bill would increase education funding for veterans’ children
HARRISBURG, March 12 – State Rep. Ken Smith, D-Lackawanna, has introduced legislation that would give veterans' children more money for college under the state's Educational Gratuity Program.
The Educational Gratuity Program currently provides $500 a semester to children of disabled or deceased veterans. Smith said his legislation (H.B. 2304) would increase that amount to $1,000 a semester.
“It has been 20 years since this program’s grant amount has been increased,” Smith said. “Our veterans have served honorably, sacrificed and given so much. We should make sure their children have the assistance they need, especially in light of increased education costs.”
To be eligible for assistance from the program, the honorably discharged veteran must have a 100 percent permanent and total service-connected disability rating by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. If deceased, the veteran must have died during a period of war or armed conflict.
Eligible veterans’ children must show financial need, be between the ages of 16 and 23, and live in the Commonwealth for five years prior to application. The student must also attend a school within the Commonwealth. The payments may not be made for longer than four school years.
Smith said that his bill has been referred to the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee for review.
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