West OC Times

Today, Representatives Michelle Steel (R-CA) and Susie Lee (D-NV) introduced the Education Flexibility for Veteran Parents Act. This legislation aims to provide greater flexibility for student veterans in accessing housing benefits through the G.I. Bill.

The proposed bill, H.R. 9854, would allow veterans enrolled in postsecondary education who are parents of dependent children to receive their full housing stipend under the G.I. Bill, even if they are pursuing online education. The measure addresses the growing trend of online education and rising housing costs.

Reps. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Jay Obernolte (R-CA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), and David Valadao (R-CA) joined as original cosponsors. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) are leading a companion measure in the Senate.

"Our veterans deserve full access to their G.I Bill housing benefits as they navigate the challenges of higher education and parenting, regardless of where their classroom is located," said Rep. Michelle Steel. "My legislation is a practical solution to ensuring our nation’s heroes receive the benefits necessary to support their families and further their education."

"For many veteran families, pursuing higher education online may be their only option. And those families should be eligible for a full housing stipend," said Congresswoman Susie Lee.

"Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and many are balancing school, work, and family life. For some, online education is the only real option to maintain that balance," said Congresswoman Luna. "This legislation ensures that student veterans with children can access their full housing benefits, whether they're attending classes in person or online."

"Despite advances in online education, too many veteran parents still face the difficult choice between advancing their education and caring for their children," said Rep. Panetta. "The bipartisan, bicameral Education Flexibility for Veteran Parents Act would ensure that veterans receive their full housing stipend whether they attend classes online or in person."

"We need to ensure veterans have the support they need to get their degree and find meaningful work when they return from service," said Congressman Valadao.

"Ensuring our veteran parents can access their G.I. Bill benefits without sacrificing their parental duties is not just a matter of fairness but of honoring their sacrifices," said Senator Rubio.

"We should not force veterans who are parents to choose between pursuing higher education and taking care of their family," said Senator Rosen.

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