The United States Student Association writes with the following news:

On Thursday, the House passed the Veterans Educational Assistance Act by a vote of 256-166.  The bill will provide benefits up to the level of tuition at the most expensive public in-state colleges and universities, a housing allowance based on the cost of living for the area, and a $1,000 a year textbook stipend.  The bill would be paid for with a .5% tax increase on the wealthy (individuals making more than 500,000 a year or couples making more than $1M a year). To find out how your representative voted on the new G.I. bill find out here.

The Senate is expected to take up the bill next week as part of their War Supplemental.  It has 57 co-sponsors in the Senate.  A list of co-sponsors can be found here.

The President has indicated that he will veto any increased spending beyond his request for War Supplemental funding, stating that it is expensive and will make it harder to retain forces in time of war.  However, it remains to be seen if he will carry out a veto on this bill which many veterans groups have been in support of.

We will keep you updated as Congress moves on the G.I. bill. If you have questions or would like to help take action contact the USSA office at (202) 640-6570 or at USSA@usstudents.org.