Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act
Summary
The Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act aims to modify the requirements of the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship. It amends Title 38 of the United States Code, specifically Section 3320, to change eligibility criteria and usage guidelines for the scholarship. The bill also extends certain limits on pension payments under Section 5503(d)(7) of Title 38.
Expected Effects
The act will likely broaden access to the STEM scholarship by adjusting academic progress requirements and prioritizing those who have used the most educational assistance or are actively pursuing a STEM major. Additionally, the extension of pension payment limits provides continued financial support to eligible veterans.
Potential Benefits
- Expanded Access to STEM Education: By lowering the required minimum credit hours completed, more veterans may qualify for the STEM scholarship.
- Prioritization of High-Need Individuals: Prioritizing veterans who have used the most educational assistance ensures that those closest to exhausting their benefits receive additional support.
- Focus on STEM Fields: Encourages veterans to pursue education in high-demand STEM fields, potentially leading to better career opportunities.
- Extended Pension Payments: Extends the period during which certain pension payments are limited, providing continued financial stability for affected veterans.
- Streamlined Scholarship Usage: Ensures that individuals utilize their basic educational assistance before accessing the STEM scholarship, optimizing resource allocation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Dilution of Scholarship Funds: Broadening eligibility could lead to increased demand, potentially reducing the amount of funding available per student.
- Administrative Complexity: Implementing the new prioritization criteria may add complexity to the scholarship application and review process.
- Delayed Benefit Access: Requiring the exhaustion of basic educational assistance before using the STEM scholarship may delay access to specialized STEM funding for some veterans.
- Unintended Consequences: Changes to academic progress requirements could inadvertently affect the quality or rigor of STEM programs.
- Limited Scope: The act primarily focuses on modifying existing scholarship requirements and may not address broader issues related to veteran education and employment.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble), as it aims to promote the well-being of veterans through educational opportunities. Congress has the power to legislate for the common defense and general welfare, and providing educational benefits to veterans falls under this purview. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to raise and support armies, and providing for veterans' benefits is a necessary incident to that power.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).