RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia General Assembly will reconvene later this month to restore a major tuition assistance program for military veterans and their families.
The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP) is a tuition waiver for families of fallen or disabled veterans. Language in the new state budget unintentionally changed the eligibility rules for the program, causing an uproar from the military community and lawmakers alike.
On Thursday morning, both chambers announced they will meet to address those concerns later this month.
“As a veteran with a service-connected disability and 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, I deeply understand the critical role this program plays in supporting our veterans and their families in pursuing higher education," said Del. Michael Feggans (D-Virginia Beach) in a statement announcing the special session.
“This budget was a product of bipartisan collaboration between the General Assembly and the Governor. We are committed to taking this necessary step to rectify unintended consequences as we continue to work together to conduct an independent review to find a long-term solution for VMSDEP," said Senate Finance and Appropriations Chair L. Louise Lucas (D-Portsmouth). "After my personal experience with massive resistance, I have dedicated my entire legislative career to ensure that everyone can access educational opportunities and reach their full potential. Our budget reflects this belief and the proposed changes reinforce my support for all students."
According to Senate Democrats, they aim to:
- Clarify that all students who enroll in classes by Fall 2024 are grandfathered into the existing Program prior to the budget changes;
- Exempt from the recent budget changes Gold Star Families, applicable Line of Duty beneficiaries, and those wounded as a result of military combat who are at least 90% disabled;
- Require the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) to issue official guidance no later than August 1, 2024;
- Require the Joint Legislative and Audit Review Commission (JLARC) to review the program and make recommendations prior to the 2025 General Assembly Session; and
- Make additional technical adjustments to the state budget unrelated to the VMSDEP program.
The House of Delegates and Virginia Senate will convene on different dates to work on the legislation, with the Senate meeting on June 18 and the House meeting 10 days later on June 28.