The new Post-9/11 GI Bill changes improves will help the bill virtually eliminate the need for new servicemembers to consider paying the onetime $1,200 contribution for the Montgomery GI Bill. In fact, it will mean a reduction in benefits for some current student vets and leave others without benefits during school breaks. It seems Congress is unable to find a way to pass a GI Bill that doesn’t have unintended consequences and collateral damage. The bill recently passed both the House and Senate and it is awaiting the President’s signature. In a nutshell, here are the basic changes:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill eligibility will now include National Guard activations including Title 32 service, national emergencies, and AGR service;
- includes coverage for non-degree programs including:
- license/certification courses;
- vocational-technical training;
- apprenticeship/ on-the-job training;
- eliminated the Post 9/11 GI Bill in-state undergraduate cap for tuition and fees thereby simplifying payments;
- set all private institution’s covered tuition and fees at $17,500 a year;
- monthly housing allowance will be calculated and prorated based on the number of credits taken;
- online-only students will get 50% of the housing allowance;
- break or interval pay eliminated for breaks between terms;
- active duty members and spouses will be eligible for the book stipend;
- eliminates the one test limitation for license or certification reimbursement;
- eligible care givers can get an extension on their 10-year GI Bill delimitation deadline;
- eligible NOAA and USPHS members can now transfer GI Bill benefits to dependents.
Like all bills, this one is not perfect. While it helps many veterans and servicemembers, it will hurt others, but at least it is a start. Most changes will go into effect in August 2011.
