Saint Paul, MN — Today, the Senate Committee on Higher Education advanced a bill authored by Senator Matt Klein (DFL – Mendota Heights) to expand education benefits for the families of disabled veterans, reinforcing the state’s commitment to those who have served in the nation’s Armed Forces. The legislation ensures greater access to essential educational opportunities for their dependents.
“This legislation recognizes the sacrifices that military families make alongside their loved ones who serve,” said Senator Klein. “When a veteran returns home with disabilities sustained through service, their family often carries a lifelong burden—emotionally, physically, and financially.”
The legislation would establish a financial aid program for the children of veterans with a total and permanent disability. To be eligible, dependents of certain disabled veterans would need to be resident students, be enrolled in a public institution, and complete the FAFSA. The aid would cover 100 percent of tuition, fees, and books after subtracting all other state and federal grants, scholarships, and other aid.
“By expanding benefits for the dependents of disabled veterans, we are helping to ease that burden and providing real opportunities for a better future,” said Senator Klein. “No family should struggle to afford the resources they need simply because their loved one sacrificed for our country.”
bill has received strong bipartisan support and is seen as a key step toward strengthening Minnesota’s support network for veterans and their families. The bill was laid over for possible inclusion in an omnibus bill.
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