Paul Coverdell: “This amendment is a common sense correction of a barrier veterans face when applying for financial aid from colleges and…”

“This amendment is a common sense correction of a barrier veterans face when applying for financial aid from colleges and universities. Currently, educational benefits veterans receive under the Montgomery GI bill count as a financial resource when they apply for financial aid. The ultimate result is a reduction in the total financial aid award a veteran receives to pay for college. I find it ironic, Mr. President, that the benefits intended to help veterans pay for higher education end up counting against them. Furthermore, the National Community Service Act of 1990 does not treat a national service educational award or post-service benefit as financial assistance. To present a contrasting case, Americorps education benefits are not counted as a resource in financial aid calculations. Veterans who pay for the Montgomery GI bill through paycheck deductions and dedicated service to their country should not be penalized when applying for financial aid. Mr. President, we all understand the value of higher education, and we should work to eliminate the barriers that prevent people from moving on to college.”