The bill amends the Michigan National Guard Tuition Assistance Act by updating sections 3 and 4 to enhance the administration and funding of the tuition assistance program. It establishes the Michigan National Guard member benefits fund, replacing the previous fund designation, and outlines the adjutant general's responsibilities in managing the program, including the approval of applications for tuition assistance based on eligibility and available funds. The bill also allows for family members of eligible individuals to utilize the tuition assistance, provided they meet certain criteria.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that any unencumbered balance in the newly created Michigan National Guard member benefits fund at the end of the fiscal year must be transferred to this fund, ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately. The adjutant general is authorized to expend money from the fund for tuition assistance, with the requirement that these expenditures are made on appropriation. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of two other specified bills in the 103rd Legislature.
Statutes affected: Senate Introduced Bill: 32.433, 32.434