Last week, State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Orland Hills) introduced legislation granting Illinois residency to veterans who are entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program. 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 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 and 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 and fees. The proposal I introduced would grant Illinois residency to veterans using 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 to provide financial assistance to veterans wanting to enroll in 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 veterans to get the proper education they need to find good-paying jobs after they finish serving their country.”

Hastings proposal, Senate Bill 2167, was introduced and awaits further action by the Senate.