On August 2, the U.S. Senate unanimously approved H.R. 3218, the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017—the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved the measure in July. Among other advances for student veterans, the bill would correct an issue that has prevented veterans from using their Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits at area career and technical education centers—nonprofit, non-degree-granting institutions that award certificates demonstrating technical competency. The bill will clear the way for student veterans to use their education benefits for hybrid education programs and distance learning at area CTE centers. Programs will meet standards to ensure student veterans receive training aligned with employer requirements and, upon program completion, receive credentials recognized by employers. The bill also clarifies existing standards that require programs designed to prepare individuals for professional state licensure or certification meet all necessary content and instructional criteria.
The CTE provisions of the bill were sponsored by Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK) and Representative Markwayne Mullin (R-OK). “Career and technical education programs provide our vets with essential skills, allowing them to enter fields such as welding, mechanics and cosmetology. These are skills our workforce desperately needs,” said Sen. Inhofe. “Our veterans deserve our gratitude for the dedication and sacrifices they made for our country. We can start by ensuring that their GI Bill benefits can be applied in a way that works for them,” added Rep. Mullin. ACTE worked closely with these offices in the development of this important legislation that will allow veterans greater access to postsecondary CTE.
Update: The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act was signed into law on August 16. If your institution operates a hybrid, blended or online non-degree program that is not currently approved for VA education benefits, contact your state approving agency for more information on program eligibility.
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