Reps. Jarrells, Miller introduce legislation to expand in-state tuition eligibility for veterans

State Reps. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Rep. Adam Miller (D-Columbus) today introduced the Veteran Education Tuition Support Act, which would expand eligibility for veterans, their spouses, and dependents for in-state tuition. This bill would specifically provide in-state tuition to any member of the Ohio National Guard who had 15 days active duty or active duty training in a service year. 

In the last general assembly, H.B. 16 was passed to expand eligibility for veterans, their spouses, and dependents, but this legislation would go further to include a large number of National Guard members who otherwise would not be eligible for in-state tuition due to a one year of active duty service requirement.

“H.B. 16 was a vital step in removing residency requirement barriers for veterans. However, it is important that we are honoring everyone who has honorably served in our military, including those in the National Guard. This is another opportunity to expand higher education opportunities that fit the needs of those who put their lives on the line to serve our country,”  said Rep. Jarrells.            

 "We need to recruit and retain these service members who offer so much for our state," said Rep. Miller.  "This bill states if you, your family, employer, or community sacrificed so you could serve and support our military, then it doesn't matter if you did it here or overseas - you deserve in state tuition and a chance to attend our state colleges and universities.  We all win when our service members call Ohio home."

The legislation awaits a bill number and referral to an Ohio House committee.