Veterans' Educational Assistance Legislation Enacted in the 118th Congress. CRS Report R48588, Version 2. New

Abstract

The veterans' educational assistance programs, including the GI Bills, are intended to support recruitment to and retention in the Armed Forces, help servicemembers and veterans adjust to the civilian workforce, and provide educational assistance to family members of servicemembers and veterans who may not be able to do so as a result of their service. Congress regularly enacts legislation to improve and update the programs based on reported issues and newly identified needs. This report provides an overview of legislation enacted in the 118th Congress that affects the veterans' educational assistance programs. Where available, the basis for the legislative provisions is discussed. The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act (P.L. 118-210) enacted on December 22, 2023, made several updates to veterans' health care, educational assistance, home loan, homeless, and disability programs. Most policies discussed in this report were enacted by P.L. 118-210.