H.R.983 - Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 983, the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2025, aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code. The bill seeks to ensure that public institutions of higher learning charge veterans using educational assistance under Title 10 the in-state tuition rate. This requirement would be enforced by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, who would disapprove courses at institutions not complying with this provision.
The bill specifically targets veterans using educational assistance under chapter 1606 of Title 10, which pertains to the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve. The changes would take effect for academic periods beginning on or after August 1, 2026.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 5, 2025, and referred to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs and Armed Services.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to standardize tuition rates for veterans attending public colleges and universities. It would mandate that veterans using Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve benefits receive the in-state tuition rate, regardless of their residency status.
This could lead to increased access to higher education for veterans, particularly those who may have relocated due to military service. Institutions not complying with the in-state tuition requirement could lose their eligibility for VA educational assistance programs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Affordability: Veterans would pay lower tuition rates at public institutions.
- Expanded Access to Education: More veterans may be able to afford higher education.
- Fairness and Equity: Ensures veterans are not penalized for their service by being charged out-of-state tuition.
- Streamlined Enrollment: Simplifies the process for veterans to access their educational benefits.
- Potential Economic Boost: Increased enrollment could benefit local economies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Financial Strain on Public Institutions: Colleges and universities may face reduced revenue from tuition.
- Administrative Burden: Institutions may need to adjust their policies and systems to comply.
- Possible Unintended Consequences: Could lead to increased competition for in-state slots, potentially disadvantaging some residents.
- Delayed Implementation: The effective date is set for August 1, 2026, delaying immediate benefits.
- Limited Scope: Only affects veterans using Chapter 1606 benefits at public institutions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). By promoting educational opportunities for veterans, the bill can be argued to promote the general welfare. Congress has the power to legislate for the military under Article I, Section 8, which includes providing for veterans' benefits.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections. It is a legislative action aimed at providing a specific benefit to a defined group (veterans) and does not discriminate against any protected class.
However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states. Setting tuition policy has traditionally been a state matter. The constitutionality of this bill may depend on whether the federal government's power to regulate veteran's benefits outweighs the state's right to set tuition policy.
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).