(KNSI) — The Minnesota House Higher Education Finance Committee has advanced bipartisan legislation to provide college benefits for the children of veterans with disabilities.
Under the proposal, children of veterans with a total and permanent disability would receive full tuition, mandatory fees, and book costs – after accounting for grants, scholarships, and financial aid – at Minnesota State or University of Minnesota schools. Children of veterans with a 100% disability rating but without permanent status would receive 50% of the benefit.
The bill was introduced by Representative Mary Frances Clardy, who says investing in the education of children of disabled veterans is more than a benefit. “It’s a recognition of the sacrifices made. I’m grateful for my constituents bringing the idea forward. It’s an acknowledgment that these military families have already paid a heavy price, and that we, as a collective society, have a responsibility to ensure their future is not limited by those sacrifices.”
Alan Garske, a 20 year U.S. Navy veteran and constituent of Rep. Clardy, lives on a fixed income with four children and shared his support. “I am a 100% disabled veteran because I was in the Navy for 20 years defending our country to its fullest. I am married with four children, and they will be college age coming up soon. This is an investment not only to help me but for all veterans who are at 100% disability.”
There is a companion bill that has been introduced in the Senate.
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