Bill > LB1117

This bill modifies provisions related to tuition waivers for dependents of veterans and for first responders, and establishes a reimbursement system for postsecondary institutions. For dependents of veterans, the bill clarifies eligibility requirements, including that the dependent must have exhausted benefits from the federal Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance program, and expands the definition of eligible dependents. Starting July 1, 2028, the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education will reimburse the University of Nebraska, state colleges, and community colleges for fifty percent of the tuition waivers provided to these dependents, with reimbursements prorated if appropriations are insufficient. For first responders and their eligible dependents, the bill adjusts the duration of tuition waivers to be up to one hundred twenty credit hours or five years, whichever comes first, and requires a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 for qualifying children to maintain eligibility. The bill also clarifies that the First Responder Recruitment and Retention Act tuition waivers will cover one hundred percent of remaining resident tuition after other aid is applied, and similar to the veteran dependent waivers, it establishes a fifty percent reimbursement from the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education to institutions for these waivers, also starting July 1, 2028, and subject to proration if funds are limited.

Budget and Finance

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=63270