Hoyer Statement on the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) released the following statement today after the House passed legislation to expand and improve the landmark New Post-9/11 GI Bill passed in 2008. The bill will now be sent to the President's desk for his signature.

"Today the House passed the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010," stated Congressman Hoyer. "This important legislation reaffirms our commitment to those who have served our country in the Armed Forces since September 11, 2001. It continues our strong investment in the education and careers of our servicemen and -women and America's veterans, and it makes key improvements to the landmark Post-9/11 GI Bill that Democrats passed in the previous Congress."

The new package makes it easier for veterans to use New GI Bill education benefits to pay for tuition at public and private universities, and covers veterans seeking vocational and on-job training that will place them directly in the work force – all to help get our economy back on track.  In addition, the legislation will allow over 130,000 additional National Guardsmen to become eligible for the GI benefits that help them further their educations.

"I thank all of the veterans groups who helped make the passage of this legislation possible," Hoyer continued. "Once it is signed by President Obama, this legislation will play a critical role in preparing these heroes for the next phase of their careers."

This legislation builds on Democrats' strong record of accomplishments for veterans and troops– including the new G.I. Bill to provide returning troops with the promise of a college education;  an updated VA Home Loan program and economic opportunities for returning soldiers; historic investments in veterans' health care; legislation to strengthen the support systems of veteran caregivers including access to training, counseling and 24 hour respite care; expanded veteran homeless prevention care and improving care for those with PTSD; and better care for women veterans.  To read more about Democratic efforts to help Veterans, click here.

View letters of support from the American Legion, IAVA , Student Veterans of America, MOAA, and Disabled American Veterans.

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