Bob Filner: “First, this measure would provide a modest increase in the benefits paid under the Montgomery GI bill--active duty. As…”

“First, this measure would provide a modest increase in the benefits paid under the Montgomery GI bill--active duty. As the costs of education continue to rise, we must ensure that the GI bill is a meaningful readjustment benefit that provides an adequate level of assistance to our veteran students. Additionally, in a recent report, the Department of Defense cautioned that we must pay close attention to the benefit levels paid under the Montgomery GI bill if this program is to continue to be an effective recruitment tool. Next, a provision of H.R. 3674 would permit certain active-duty individuals who have eligibility under the Veterans' Educational Assistance Program, known as VEAP, to transfer to the Montgomery GI bill. By way of background, the new GI bill, as introduced by Mr. Montgomery and approved by the House in 1984, would have permitted all servicemembers with VEAP eligibility to transfer to the new program. The new GI bill was a far more generous program than VEAP, and Sonny wanted those members of the Armed Forces who were VEAP-eligibles to have the opportunity to enroll in the more attractive program.”