General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5417 seeks to enhance educational opportunities for the children of veterans by allowing them to utilize their parent's unused tuition waivers at the Connecticut State Community College. The bill amends Section 10a-77 of the general statutes to include provisions that specifically extend these waivers to children of veterans who have not previously received them. Additionally, the legislation mandates state funding for these waivers, ensuring that the Connecticut State Community College Operating Fund is adequately supported through appropriations from state revenues and tuition revenue. The bill also retains existing tuition waiver provisions for other groups, such as dependents of military personnel and first responders, while expanding support for veterans' families.

Moreover, the bill introduces several amendments to the tuition and fee structure for veterans and students at the Connecticut State University System and The University of Connecticut. It mandates the waiver of tuition and extension fees for veterans applying for federal educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act, even if their application is denied. The bill eliminates graduation fees, allows students called to active duty to reenroll without additional charges, and establishes a framework for financial assistance for students demonstrating substantial financial need. It also repeals and replaces existing provisions regarding the management of the Connecticut State University System Operating Fund and outlines the funding mechanisms for these waivers, ensuring that financial barriers to education are minimized for veterans and their families. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.