On the recordMay 27, 2010
I am introducing today the proposed Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010. This measure is designed to make a number of modifications to the new program of educational assistance which became effective on August 1, 2009. As one of three remaining Senators who benefited from the original GI Bill following World War II, I know firsthand the value of an education and of the critical role that this important veterans benefit played in my life. That was why I was especially pleased to join with the distinguished Senator from Virginia, Mr. Webb, in achieving enactment of the new Post-9/11 GI Bill in 2008. Now, with ten months of experience under the new program, I believe it is time to look at what improvements and modifications need to be made in order for the program to reach its potential. I note at the outset that this will not be a simple process. Nor will it be quickly and easily accomplished. There are issues that we can readily see need to be addressed. There are others, however, that are only just now coming to our attention as the program is implemented and veterans, servicemembers, and their families begin to receive benefits under the program. I will highlight some of the provisions that are contained in the bill I am introducing today: It would make members of the National Guard and Reserve programs who were inadvertently omitted from inclusion fully eligible for benefits.
