What's happened
Virginia lawmakers have repealed new restrictions on the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program, offering free college tuition at state schools for families of military veterans. The costs of the program have risen significantly, leading to a budget restriction earlier this year. After weeks of struggle, lawmakers have reached an agreement to fully restore the program, allocating additional funds to support colleges and universities. Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed the legislation into law upon his return from the Republican National Convention.
What's behind the headline?
What the papers say
The Washington Post reports that veterans and their families protested vehemently against the new restrictions, leading to the unanimous vote by state lawmakers to restore the program. The ACLU criticized the amendment that would restrict gender-affirming care for transgender troops, calling it discriminatory. Sen. Joe Manchin expressed regret over his vote on amendments related to gender-affirming care for US servicemembers and their families.
How we got here
The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program provides free college tuition at state schools for families of military veterans who were killed or seriously disabled while on active duty. The program's costs have increased significantly over the years, prompting a budget restriction earlier this year. The recent legislation aimed to tighten eligibility requirements and residency rules, sparking protests from veterans and their families.
Common question
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