Bill > S2698

This bill amends the United States Code to provide a mechanism for spouses and dependent children to retain educational benefits that would have otherwise been terminated due to a service member's discharge related to dependent abuse or sexual assault. Specifically, the bill allows the Secretary of Defense or Homeland Security to reinstate educational assistance payments that were transferred to a spouse or dependent child if the service member's discharge was due to a dependent-abuse offense and resulted in a discharge characterization that does not meet standard requirements. The bill establishes a process for applying for reinstatement, requiring applicants to provide evidence of being a victim of dependent abuse. The reinstatement is limited to the unused portion of previously transferred educational benefits, and the application process must be trauma-informed. The bill also defines key terms like "dependent-abuse offense" and "covered individual," and sets up a review process for denied applications. Additionally, the bill prevents individuals from receiving educational assistance from multiple programs concurrently and requires them to elect a single program for benefits. The goal is to protect the educational benefits of family members who are victims of domestic violence or sexual assault when a service member is discharged for related offenses.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2698/all-info