Bill > HF117

This bill establishes the National Guard Service Professional Qualification Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships to Iowa National Guard members pursuing specific educational credentials. To be eligible, participants must be Iowa residents, be active members of an Army or Air National Guard unit, have completed initial active duty training, maintain satisfactory performance, and be enrolled in an approved educational program at a community college, regent institution, or accredited private institution. Scholarship awards will cover the total cost of the educational program, but if funding is insufficient, the Adjutant General will coordinate distribution. The College Student Aid Commission will administer the program, with the Adjutant General determining eligibility and certifying applicants. Importantly, the scholarship is specifically for post-secondary certificates or competency-based credentials, excluding associate and higher-level degrees. The program allows unencumbered funds from related sections to be used, and the Adjutant General will maintain a list of approved educational programs. Participants must apply, submit required forms, and seek all available non-repayable state and federal financial aid. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to support National Guard members in obtaining professional qualifications.

Education

Education (House)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF117