GI Bill Increase 2000

VA Secretary Backs GI Bill Increase

May 11, 2000
(Printable Version)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of Veterans Affairs Togo D. West Jr. today praised an administration proposal for a 25-percent increase in Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance for veterans and active-duty military personnel. If approved by Congress, it would be the largest single benefits hike in the programs 16-year history.

"This administration continues to show leadership on veterans issues," said Secretary West. "This proposal would nearly double Montgomery GI Bill benefits from their level in 1993 when President Clinton took office."

The Clinton-Gore proposal would permit veterans to use their Montgomery GI Bill benefits for certain licensing and certification. The plan also provides the same percentage increase in education benefits for survivors and dependents.

The administration plan, unveiled May 10 by Vice President Gore, would increase payments under the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program from $536 to $670 monthly. The higher rates would take effect October 1.

"By having the increase take effect immediately, instead of phasing in over several years, participating veterans will get help sooner," Secretary West said.

The increase would narrow the gap that has developed between Montgomery GI Bill benefits and the cost of higher education. In 1985, the $300 monthly benefit covered 70 percent of the average college tuition. The current rate of $536 only pays 58 percent of the average tuition.

Under the Montgomery GI Bill, active-duty participants have a $100 monthly deduction from their paychecks for their first 12 months in uniform.

"Since 1944, the GI Bill has eased the transition of millions of military personnel back to the private sector, where they became the backbone of our economy," Secretary West said. "Improving the Montgomery GI Bill is an investment in the future."