HF982

The proposed bill, H.F. No., aims to support the education of dependents of disabled veterans in Minnesota. Here are the key points outlined in the bill:

1. Eligibility: To be eligible for educational benefits, a person must:

   • Be enrolled in an undergraduate degree or certificate program at a state-operated institution or one governed by the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota.
   • Be a dependent child of a veteran who either has a 100% permanent disability or a disability rating of 70% or more, as defined in section 197.447.

2. Educational Benefit Award Amount:

   • Full (100%) coverage of actual tuition and mandatory fees, plus book expenses, is provided after deducting any state and federal grants, scholarships, or other financial aid, for dependents of veterans with 100% permanent disability.
   • A 50% coverage is offered for dependents of veterans with a disability rating of 70% or more, after the same deductions.

3. Non-Impact on Other State Grants: Receiving this educational benefit does not affect the recipient’s eligibility for state grants as per section 136A.121.

4. Payment Process:

   • Upon verifying eligibility, the educational institution, on behalf of the student, must request the payment of the award from the Office of Higher Education.
   • Institutions cannot request payment unless the student is currently enrolled or has completed the term for which the payment is intended.

This bill essentially provides financial aid to dependents of disabled veterans, making higher education more accessible to them and acknowledging the service and sacrifice of their veteran parents. The benefit varies depending on the degree of the parent's disability.