This bill amends the existing law regarding Military Dependents Scholarships to expand eligibility to students enrolled in approved career and technical education programs. It also includes dependents of military members who served in the recent operations, specifically Operation Freedoms Sentinel and Operation Inherent Resolve. The amendments to Section 3 of P.L.2015, c.117 add these operations to the list of qualifying military engagements, while Section 4 is updated to allow scholarships for costs associated with attending career and technical education programs, in addition to undergraduate studies at higher education institutions.

Furthermore, the bill increases the eligibility period for a Military Dependents Scholarship from 15 years to 21 years for spouses or other eligible dependents of military personnel who have died, are missing in action, or are permanently disabled due to their service. This change aims to provide additional support to military families and ensure that they have access to educational opportunities. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:71B-100, 18A:71B-101, 18A:71B-102