The proposed bill, SB1174, amends existing Arizona law to expand eligibility for tuition waiver scholarships to the children and spouses of deceased veterans, members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and current or previous peace officers or firefighters who died by suicide after suffering from a posttraumatic stress injury incurred in the line of duty. The bill specifies that the tuition waiver applies retroactively to taxable periods beginning July 1, 2023, and outlines the criteria for eligibility, including verification by relevant state boards and the requirement that the deceased was a resident of Arizona at the time of death.

Key changes from current law include the addition of eligibility for those whose parent or spouse suffered a posttraumatic stress injury and subsequently died by suicide, regardless of whether they were employed in their respective roles at the time of death. The bill also allows for reimbursement for eligible individuals who did not receive a tuition waiver during the 2023-2024 or 2024-2025 school years. Additionally, it establishes prima facie evidence for posttraumatic stress injuries and repeals the requirement for the Arizona Board of Regents to provide these scholarships after December 31, 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-1808
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-1808
Chaptered Version: 15-1808