Bill > SB2444

This bill establishes a new scholarship program for combat veterans in Mississippi, allowing them to receive tuition grants at state-supported universities and community colleges based on their military service. The program will provide veterans with one month of free tuition for each month served during a qualifying period, with a minimum of one and a maximum of four academic years of scholarship grants. To be eligible, veterans must be Mississippi residents, have been honorably discharged, qualify for in-state tuition, and either have served in a combat zone and received a campaign medal or have a service-connected disability rating of 10% or more. Veterans who are already eligible for federal educational benefits cannot participate. The scholarships will be funded through a newly created Combat Veteran Scholarship Fund in the State Treasury, with a maximum annual appropriation of $500,000. Applicants can apply through their selected school's financial aid office or the Mississippi Army National Guard Education Service Office. The bill amends existing legislation related to educational benefits for veterans and their families, and will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Education, Military Affairs and Security

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2444.xml