Substitute Bill No. 6439 seeks to amend existing laws related to tuition and fee waivers for veterans and members of the National Guard at public higher education institutions in Connecticut. The bill repeals Section 10a-26 and introduces new definitions for "full-time student" and "tuition," while specifying that tuition will be charged according to amended sections 10a-77, 10a-99, and 10a-105. It exempts individuals enrolled in educational extension programs, including summer and winter sessions, from tuition fees and expands the definition of tuition to include extension fees, which will also be waived for eligible veterans and National Guard members. The bill outlines specific criteria for tuition waivers, including provisions for dependents of military personnel and veterans who served in wartime, ensuring equitable treatment during course registration.

Additionally, the bill mandates that a percentage of tuition revenue be allocated for financial assistance to students with demonstrated financial need, excluding the value of equity in the principal residence of the student's parents or guardians. It expands eligibility for tuition waivers to include various groups, such as dependents of military personnel declared missing in action or prisoners of war, and children of individuals killed in the line of duty. The bill also establishes reimbursement mechanisms for tuition and extension fee waivers exceeding certain revenue thresholds through state appropriations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to education for veterans and their families while ensuring financial sustainability for the university system.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
VA Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 257:
HED Joint Favorable:
FIN Joint Favorable: