Tester introduces bill to increase support for veterans pursuing college

Senator’s bill helps establish veteran student center

(U.S. Senate) – Senator Jon Tester is introducing legislation to help veterans attending college perform better, graduate and earn a good-paying job.

Tester’s bill would help colleges and universities establish and improve Veteran Student Centers to help veterans transition from active duty to being back in a classroom. Tester has heard from veterans and school officials in Montana that Veteran Student Centers improve performance in school, increase graduation rates, and help veterans feel better connected to their campus.

Tester recently helped dedicate the Veteran’s Center at Flathead Community College where he heard from veterans about the need for a one-stop shopb so veterans can get help navigating VA education benefits. He introduced this bill so other colleges and universities, including two-year schools in Montana, could enjoy the same benefits.

“Veteran Student Centers have a great track record in Montana, and give veterans a leg up when starting their life after military service,” said Tester, Montana’s only member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “This bill will improve the services that veteran students get so they can do better in school and earn a good-paying job.”

Tester’s bill is supported by numerous military and veterans’ organizations, including the Student Veterans of America, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Last Congress, Tester introduced a bipartisan bill to allow service members more flexibility to determine how to use their GI Bill benefits for post-military education or training when transitioning to civilian life.

Tester’s Veteran Education Empowerment Act, which is cosponsored by Bill Nelson, (D-Fla.), is available online HERE.