STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS30416 / H0219
This legislation makes the following amendments to the Armed Forces and Public Safety Officer Scholarship.
• Codifies current and past practice for how Idaho residency is determined. • Increases the allowance for books,
equipment and supplies from $500 to $750 per semester. This amount was last increased 21 years ago from $200
to $500. • Extends the time period for eligibility from 10 years to 19 years after occurrence of the qualifying
event, and makes the effective date retroactive to July 1, 2022. • Makes a technical correction regarding
the determination of disability for members of the Armed Forces. Currently, the statute references disability
determinations made by the United States Social Security Administration (SSA) and determinations made by
the Idaho Division of Veterans Services. However, the Idaho Division of Veterans Services does not make
disability determinations, so the proposed amendment would remove that reference. Disability determinations
made by the Veterans Affairs Administration (VA) apply a different standard from that used by SSA and PERSI
(which applies to public safety officers). Under SSA and PERSI determinations of disability, the individual is
prevented from engaging in any occupation or employment. Removing the reference to the Division of Veterans
Services ensures that disability determinations are internally consistent when applied to Armed Forces and
Public Safety Officer applicants.
FISCAL NOTE
The average number of scholarships awarded over the past seven years is 11. Using this average and assuming
it remains constant, increasing the allowance for books, equipment and supplies from $500 to $750 would cost
$5,500 annually.
Contact:
Representative Chris Mathias
(208) 332-1000
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 02/24/2023, 10:20 AM


Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-4302
Engrossment 1: 33-4302