Tuition-free classes for vets

As military veterans return from Iraq and Afghanistan, many without a college degree, proposed legislation would enable eligible veterans or their spouses to enroll in college courses on a space-available basis for credit without paying tuition.

HF1982 would allow participants to take up to 24 credits at a state public college or university and to pay only an administrative fee, according to the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Carolyn McElfatrick (R-Deer River). To participate, the student must have been eligible for the Minnesota G.I. bill program or federal educational benefits. The student would be responsible for paying any additional course fees, such as books or materials.

The college or university could apply for reimbursement of lost tuition to the veterans affairs commissioner, who may pay the school from excess appropriations to the Minnesota G.I. Bill program. The program would run through June 30, 2019.

The House Veterans Services Division approved the bill as amended March 12 and referred it to the House Higher Education Policy and Finance Committee. There is no Senate companion.