Bill > SB668

This bill expands tuition benefits for disabled veterans and their families in Oregon by modifying existing law to allow veterans who are 80 percent or more disabled (reduced from the previous 100 percent threshold) to receive tuition waivers for vocational programs, associate degrees, baccalaureate degrees, and master's degrees at eligible post-secondary institutions, including community colleges, public universities, and Oregon Health and Science University. The bill extends these benefits to the spouse and child of disabled service members and Purple Heart recipients, with specific age restrictions for children (23 years old or younger, with a special provision for master's degree waivers). Importantly, the tuition waivers cannot be reduced by other financial aid, scholarships, or grants the student may receive, ensuring that qualified students can fully benefit from the waiver. The bill also specifies maximum waiver limits based on the type of program, such as two years of credit hours for an associate degree and four years for a baccalaureate degree. The legislation declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage, with the goal of supporting veterans and their families in accessing higher education.

Budget and Finance, Military Affairs and Security

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB668