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HSB 4

A bill for an act modifying provisions related to the national guard service scholarship program.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HSB 4 adjusts Iowa's National Guard scholarship, changing award calculations and eligibility criteria to better support members pursuing higher education.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 118.
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Bill Summary · HSB 4

Summary of HSB 4 - National Guard Service Scholarship Program Modifications

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HSB 4
  • Title: A bill for an act modifying provisions related to the national guard service scholarship program.
  • Status: Approved by committee, renumbered as HF 118.
  • Introduced: January 14, 2025
  • Classification: Proposed bill
  • Subject: Military, National Guard, Scholarships

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of HSB 4 is to amend the existing provisions of the National Guard Service Scholarship Program in Iowa. This program is designed to provide financial assistance to members of the Iowa National Guard who are pursuing higher education at eligible Iowa colleges and universities.

Key Provisions

  1. Scholarship Amount Adjustments:

    • The bill modifies the calculation of scholarship awards. Previously, the maximum award was limited to the resident tuition rate set by the state board of regents.
    • Under the new provisions, the scholarship amount will not exceed the difference between the tuition rate at the institution attended by the National Guard member and any financial aid received from specified federal programs.

  2. Eligibility Criteria Changes:

    • Current law stipulates that eligibility and award determinations are not based on the member's unit, drill location, or whether they belong to the Iowa Army or Air National Guard.
    • HSB 4 proposes to strike this provision, potentially allowing for eligibility determinations based on these factors.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The bill primarily affects Iowa National Guard members who are enrolled in or plan to enroll in eligible colleges and universities within Iowa.
    • It may also impact the financial aid landscape for these members, as the changes in eligibility criteria could alter who qualifies for the scholarship.

  • Financial Implications:

    • The adjustment in scholarship calculations could provide more tailored financial support to National Guard members, depending on their specific circumstances regarding tuition and federal aid.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 14, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Education Committee.
  • January 16, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held.
  • January 21, 2025:
    • Subcommittee recommends passage.
    • Committee report recommending passage issued.
    • Committee vote: 22 in favor, 1 against.
  • January 23, 2025: Committee report approving the bill, renumbered as HF 118.

Conclusion

HSB 4 seeks to enhance the National Guard Service Scholarship Program by adjusting scholarship calculations and modifying eligibility criteria. These changes aim to provide better financial support for Iowa National Guard members pursuing higher education, although the removal of certain eligibility protections may raise questions about access to these scholarships.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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