Bill > SB1345

This bill amends the Illinois Veteran grant program by expanding the definition of a "qualified applicant" to include veterans who served less than one year of federal active duty and received an uncharacterized discharge specifically as a result of a service-connected disability. Previously, the grant program had more restrictive requirements for service length and discharge status. The bill adds a new provision (subsection (2)(E)) to the existing law that allows veterans with shorter service periods and certain discharge types to qualify for educational benefits. Under this grant program, qualified veterans can receive tuition and mandatory fee waivers at state-controlled universities and public community colleges for up to 4 years of full-time enrollment. The goal appears to be providing more inclusive educational support for veterans who may have been unable to serve full tours of duty due to service-connected disabilities, ensuring they still have access to higher education assistance. The bill maintains other existing qualifications, such as residency requirements and maintaining satisfactory academic progress, while broadening the eligibility criteria to support a wider range of veterans.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1345&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104