Texas OKs Slashing Of Tuition Benefits For Veterans, DREAMers
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AUSTIN (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — Tuition breaks for certain groups may soon be a thing of the past in Texas. The senate Tuesday approved slashing higher education benefits for veterans who are given free tuition for military service.
In 2009, the legislature passed the Hazlewood Legacy Act, which allows veterans to to transfer their unused tuition-free credit hours to their children. But costs for the program climbed nearly six-fold over the past four years; more dependents have begun receiving free tuition under Hazlewood than veterans.
New guidelines would exclude veterans who haven't been Texas residents for eight years. Veterans or their children would also now be required to use the benefit within 15 years of leaving military service.
The senate passed the bill 24-7. Critics say the cuts send a signal that lawmakers are reneging on promises made to veterans.
The changes have yet to clear the house.
Additionally, legislators are fighting to repeal the 2001 DREAM Act. The bill provides in-state tuition for non-citizens who have lived in the state for at least 3 years before graduating high school.
Last month, the senate passed Sen. Donna Campbell's S.B. 1819 with a 4-3 vote. If cleared by the house, it would amend the education code for residency status. Higher education institutes would be allowed to establish a rule for proof of citizenship and duration of Texas residency.
Out of state tuition costs 2 - 3 times as much.
That bill now faces its fate in the house.
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