This bill establishes a dependent of a disabled veteran tuition grant program within the college student aid commission to provide financial assistance for tuition and mandatory fees to eligible students attending eligible institutions. The program defines eligible students as residents of Iowa who are dependents of veterans with a permanent service-connected disability rating of 100%, are under 27 years old, and meet specific application and enrollment criteria. Full-time students can receive grants for up to eight semesters, while part-time students can receive grants for up to twelve semesters on a prorated basis. The grants are awarded annually, requiring reapplication each year, and payments are made directly to the eligible institutions.
Additionally, the bill creates a dedicated fund in the state treasury for the program, with an appropriation of $500,000 from the general fund for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The college student aid commission is tasked with administering the program, including providing application forms, adopting necessary rules for program administration, and approving grants on a first-come, first-served basis. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the commission and the process for refunding grant payments if a recipient discontinues attendance.