WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tom Udall today issued the following statement marking the official August 1, 2009 expansion of the G.I. Bill:
"The expansion of the GI Bill after more than two decades is a major victory for our veterans and their families.
"After World War II we took a step towards fulfilling our responsibility to veterans who served by instituting the Montgomery GI bill, which gave thousands of veterans, including my father and uncle, the chance to pursue higher education.
"After 25 years, I'm proud that we have enacted a new, Post-9/11 GI Bill as another step toward fulfilling that sacred responsibility for a new generation of veterans. This legislation represents our commitment to fully supporting our soldiers on the battlefield and when they return."
The Post-9/11 GI Bill, cosponsored by then-Rep. Tom Udall and enacted into law last year, authorizes the most extensive educational assistance opportunity since the passage of the original GI Bill in 1944. The maximum benefit allows every eligible veteran, service member, Reservist, and National Guard member an opportunity to receive an in-state, undergraduate education at a public institution at no cost. In addition, 1,100 institutes of higher learning are participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program, giving eligible veterans the opportunity to attend participating private universities and colleges across America at potentially no cost as well.
Last month, Udall released a New GI Bill Resource and Application Guide to encourage New Mexico veterans and their family members to apply for the educational benefits. To obtain a copy, visit: http://www.tomudall.senate.gov/GI%20Bill%20Resource%20Guide%20.pdf .
