Cliff Stearns: “in an era of international economic competition, education is more important than ever. The link between education and…”

“in an era of international economic competition, education is more important than ever. The link between education and our economic competitiveness is clear. In this decade, 89 percent of the jobs being created require some form of post-secondary training. That is why I rise today in support of this measure which increases the monetary amount and expands access to certain members of the Army and National Guard for the Montgomery GI bill. By allowing participants in the Veterans' Education Assistance Program to transfer into the Montgomery GI bill, veterans will be afforded a greater education benefit, and an unpopular and relatively unsuccessful program will be brought nearer to closure. It is in our Nation's best interest to provide improved education opportunities whenever possible. This legislation represents a substantial stride toward transforming the Department of Veterans' Affairs into a more effective and efficient organization that can better serve our Nation's veterans. I urge my colleagues to support this measure and thus demonstrate its commitment to our outstanding young men and women who are the backbone of our Armed Forces.”