RICHMOND, Va. — State lawmakers will return to Richmond for another special session on Thursday.
The big topic up for discussion: the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Program (VMSDEP). The program allows those who qualify to receive higher education for free.
Virginia leaders have been working on the program since the state budget made changes to its eligibility.
Over the past five years, enrollment increased by nearly 5,000 students, which increased the cost for state colleges. A budget deal passed in May restricted program eligibility and required participants to apply for other forms of financial aid.
Several lawmakers shared their frustrations with the process, including Governor Glenn Youngkin who called on lawmakers to remove new language and restore the program in full. The move also upset many military families, especially those directly impacted.
There were weeks of disagreement between lawmakers before a deal was struck earlier this month.
The new legislation will propose an additional $90 million in taxpayer funds to pay for the program, in addition to $40 million already included in the two-year budget.
House and Senate lawmakers are expected to vote on the new measure on Thursday.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.