Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK02) introduced H.R. 5604 June 28th.  It is a bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize veterans to use their Post-9/11 Educational Assistance benefits to pursue independent study programs at certain educational institutions that are not institutions of higher learning.

Under the current law, veterans are not allowed to use their G.I. Bill education benefits for vocational programs if even one credit of the class is online or through distance learning.  All classes for these programs must be taken in person at the institution.

“I believe that the men and women who put on the uniform to defend our country deserve every benefit we can give them,” said Mullin.  “The best thing we can do for them is give them access to an education so they can get better jobs, and make a better life for themselves and their families.”

Institutions from across Oklahoma support the legislation.  Wade Walling, superintendent of the Wes Watkins Technology Center in Wetumka, Ok says that without this change many veterans would have to drive extreme distances to attend classes.

“Veterans should not have to drive long distance or relocate when a non-degree accredited post-secondary career and technology school is locally accessible,” says Walling.  “Veterans who have often served extended tours of duty should be able to use their vocational training GI Bill benefits close to home and family.  Let’s not require them to serve another “tour-of-duty” away from family when using their training benefits.  Common sense needs to prevail for our veterans.”

Other lawmakers also support Mullin in targeting this flaw in the current Post-9/11 education benefits.  Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK) recently introduced a similar bill in the Senate to help Oklahoma veterans receive educational benefits.

“Career and technical education centers are vital as a post-secondary education and workforce training option for our veterans," Inhofe said. “Yet recently the Obama administration ended the five-year trend of veterans receiving GI benefits to pursue independent study courses at certain tech centers, blocking access to 200 accredited educational programs in Oklahoma alone. Our veterans deserve access to a full range of accredited educational programs as they transition into civilian life. I commend Congressman Mullin for introducing this important piece of legislation and working with me to ensure that veterans are able to fully use the GI benefits they earned serving our nation.”

Opponents of the bill claim that for-profit and online only institutions could take advantage of this new legislation.

“Only accredited organizations are covered under this bill,” said Mullin.  “It is meant for public, non-profit schools that help veterans better themselves.  It is not a loophole for those who try to exploit men and women who served their country with honor.”