COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION

Rep. Don Carlson, Republican Co-Chair; and

Rep. Phyllis Kenney, Democratic Co-Chair

BILL ANALYSIS -- SSB 5215

Brief Description:  Extending veterans' exemptions from higher education tuition.

Background:

The governing boards of the state's public higher education institutions may exempt veterans of the Vietnam conflict, who served in Southeast Asia, from all or a portion of increases in student tuition and fees that occur after October 1, 1977.  To qualify for the exemption, the veteran must be a resident student and must have served in Southeast Asia during the time period between August 5, 1964, and May 7, 1975.  Currently, the expiration date for this tuition exemption is June 30, 1999.

The governing boards of the state's public higher education institutions may exempt veterans of the Persian Gulf combat zone from all or a portion of increases in tuition and fees that occur after the 1990-91 academic year.  To qualify for the exemption, the veteran must have qualified as a resident student if enrolled as a student on August 1, 1990.  The veteran also must have served on active duty in the armed forces of the United States during any portion of 1991 in the Persian Gulf combat zone.  Currently, the expiration date for this tuition exemption is June 30, 1999. 

Summary:

The expiration dates for both tuition exemptions are eliminated.  Technical colleges are encouraged to provide tuition waivers to Viet Nam and Persian Gulf veterans.

Prepared for the House Higher Education Committee

by Sherie Story, Research Analyst (786-7120)

Office of Program Research

March 22, 1999