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Bill

HB 5417

AN ACT ALLOWING CHILDREN OF VETERANS TO USE SUCH VETERAN'S UNUSED TUITION WAIVERS AND REQUIRING STATE FUNDING FOR TUITION WAIVERS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Billy Buckbee and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut bill allows veterans' children to use parent's unused tuition waivers at public colleges, with state funding covering all costs.

FAV. CHG. OF REF., SEN. TO COMM. ON Appropriations
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Bill Summary · HB 5417

Legislative bill overview

HB 5417 would allow children of veterans to inherit and use their parent's unused tuition waivers at Connecticut public higher education institutions. The bill also requires the state to provide funding to cover the cost of these transferred waivers, rather than placing the financial burden on individual colleges and universities.

Why is this important

Many veterans receive tuition waivers as a benefit but may not use them fully due to career paths, timing, or other circumstances. This bill creates a pathway for their children to access higher education affordably while honoring veteran service. It addresses both educational access and veteran family support, though it carries fiscal implications for the state budget.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to state budget: Requiring full state funding for transferred waivers could create unpredictable ongoing expenses, raising questions about whether this is the best use of higher education funding
  • Eligibility scope: The bill doesn't specify details like income limits, time limits for use, or how many children can benefit from one veteran's waiver—these gaps could affect fairness and costs
  • Impact on institutions: Shifting costs entirely to the state rather than institutions means colleges lose flexibility in managing their financial aid budgets and student enrollment planning

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

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