When we return to Session in January, I intend to introduce legislation that would amend Title 51 (Military Affairs) to require the establishment of a “Combat to College” program at state education institutions (PASSHE, state-related universities and community colleges.) This legislation, previously sponsored by former Rep. Mark Painter (HB 841 of 2013-14) promotes a veteran-friendly educational environment to assist veterans and returning deployed military in attaining a degree from a higher educational institution. The following highlights the legislation and its standards: - State education institutions (PASSHE, state-related universities, and community colleges) shall provide post-secondary credit to veteran students from their military training.
- A statewide task force shall be established to recommend best practices.
- Each state education institution shall designate a coordinator who will be tasked with developing programs and events that create a positive atmosphere for veteran students.
- State education institutions shall not require veteran students to pay an admissions fee when returning to the state education institution attended prior to mobilization.
- While state educational institutions will be required to follow these standards, Pennsylvania’s private education institutions can be awarded a “Pennsylvania Combat to College Certified” status for voluntary compliance with these state standards.
- State education institutions will provide central access to veteran students for admissions, financial aid, class registration, disabled veteran accommodations, and academic counseling programs.
- State education institutions shall provide veteran students with a “M” to indicate mobilized status, instead of withdrawal, on college transcripts if a student is called to active duty.
The program would sunset in 15 years. Previous co-sponsors: PAINTER, MURT, McCARTER, GODSHALL, BRIGGS, O'BRIEN, BIZZARRO, ROZZI, V. BROWN, SCHLOSSBERG, LUCAS, COHEN, KORTZ, PASHINSKI, YOUNGBLOOD, FLYNN, DAVIDSON, MOLCHANY, GOODMAN, FABRIZIO, GIBBONS and FREEMAN |