State Senator Michael Hastings (D–Orland Hills) passed a measure today aimed at lowering college tuition costs for veterans. Senate Bill 2167 grants Illinois residency to veterans who are entitled to educational assistance under the Post 9/11 Educational Assistance Program passed. Granting veterans residency allows them to qualify for in-state tuition, thus lowering the cost of tuition fees and rates. 

Hastings’ bill would resolve a disparity in the Post 9/11 Education Assistance Program that has inadvertently burdened a significant number of American veterans with thousands of dollars of out-of-pocket tuition and fees based on residency status.

“The Post 9/11 Education Assistance Program is a great initiative that is an investment in the future of our most recent generation of veterans,” Hastings said. “Unfortunately, veterans are having difficulties obtaining state residency, which results in higher tuition costs and fees. This measure would reconcile that issue by granting Illinois residency to veterans who are utilizing the Assistance Program and attending an Illinois public university or community college.”

The Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act is a federal law passed in 2008 that provides financial assistance to veterans wanting to go to college after finishing active duty. The law applies to veterans who have served since Sept. 11, 2001.

“Assisting our veterans in their transition to civilian life is an important priority,” Hastings said. “Fortunately, the Post-9/11 GI Bill provides an opportunity for our veterans to get the proper education they need to find good-paying jobs after the finish serving their country.”

Senate Bill 2167 passed the Senate 55-0 and now moves to the House for consideration.