Veterans would receive in-state tuition rates under residency bill

The Education Committee heard a bill Jan. 21 that would grant residency to recently separated veterans, their spouses and dependents for the purposes of in-state tuition.

Under LB740, introduced by Bellevue Sen. Sue Crawford, veterans who have separated from a branch of the Armed Forces of the United States within the past two years would be eligible for in-state tuition.

Crawford said current policy prevents many veterans from using GI Bill benefits once they have separated from service.

“Currently the Veterans Administration only pays in-state tuition, requiring the veteran to make up the difference between that and out-of-state tuition,” she said. “Veterans represent a highly skilled, disciplined workforce. Waving the residency requirements allows Nebraska to recruit and retain these workers from states with high separation rates.”

To receive the residency status, a veteran must demonstrate intent to become a permanent resident of the state by registering to vote and obtaining a state driver’s license.

Rob Schafer, representing the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, testified in support of the bill. He said attracting recently separated veterans is vital to helping Nebraska businesses grow.

“The veteran unemployment rate is double the national average,” he said. “As we prepare Nebraska for the next generation, we need to address our pending work shortages. Offering in-state tuition is a solid investment for growing enrollment at our higher education institutions.”

Military spouse Julia Converse also supported the bill, saying that frequent relocations have made it nearly impossible to complete her degree while her husband serves.

“I won’t be able to finish my degree before we move again and it’s no longer cost effective to continue transferring my credits each time we move,” Converse said. “I’d love to be able to come back and complete my degree in Nebraska. This bill would give veterans, spouses and their dependents a chance to finish their goals by welcoming them into a community that has benefitted from their service.”

No one testified in opposition to the bill and the committee took no immediate action.