Rep. Messer Testifies on Legislation Helping Veterans Pursue Higher Education

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Luke Messer (IN-06) testified in front of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity Tuesday about his legislation that makes it easier for veterans to take the first step toward a college degree.

The Reducing Barriers for Veterans Education Act would allow veterans and servicemembers to use their Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to cover the cost of college application fees.

Currently, Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits can be used to cover expenses such as tuition, housing, books and supplies, and even testing and certification fees, but not application fees.

"Our men and women in uniform deserve a modernized GI Bill that removes obstacles they face when pursuing a degree," Messer said at the hearing. "This important legislation makes it easier for our veterans to take the first step toward a new career after serving our country."

The typical fee for a single college application can run upwards of $90. School admittance experts typically recommend prospective students apply to six to eight schools, creating a significant financial burden.

Messer's legislation would help prevent these costs from being a barrier to our nation's veterans who are pursuing their higher education dreams.

A qualifying veteran who chooses to use their GI Bill benefits to cover the cost of application fees for approved institutions could do so up $750 under Messer's bill.

The Reducing Barriers for Veterans Education Act is supported by the Student Veterans of America, Veterans Education Success, the American Legion, and the Retired Enlisted Association.

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