Upcoming Legislation for Florida Veterans

Allied Veterans of the World, Inc. & Affiliates supports Congress' efforts to pass legislation and provide benefits that ensure prompt comprehensive support for America's servicemen and women. It's important to recognize our heroes and understand that the American people, through elected officials, should provide assistance to meet the needs of those who have and who are currently serving their country. 

Veterans’ Tuition Bill

Florida veterans will be glad to know that Senator Crist has proposed a bill entitled the "Veterans' Tuition Assistance Act." This Senate bill cuts state college tuition in half for Florida wartime veterans enrolled in a state college. Any wartime veteran that’s lived in Florida for a year could possibly get a discount on state tuition. The student would submit an application including his or her DD-214 form to the college he or she is attending. If this bill passes, the discount tuition applies to 110% of credits towards a degree. This bill doesn’t require veterans to use any GI Bill benefits and all wartime veterans qualify, regardless of GI Bill benefits status. If the Veterans' Tuition Assistance Act takes effect in July 2009, it’ll be just in time for the fall semester. 

Vietnam Veterans' High School Diploma Bill

Senator Constantine has introduced a bill that would enable the Commissioner of Education to award a high school diploma to honorably discharged Vietnam War veterans. If this bill passes, Vietnam War veterans who joined the Armed Forces before getting their high school diploma would be eligible to receive their diploma from the Florida Board of Education. The bill also authorizes the Florida Board of Education to develop guidelines for awarding diplomas. The Board of Education would be the agency to contact for further information. If this bill passes, it’ll take effect July 1, 2009.

Korean War Veterans' License Plate

Florida Senator Deutsch has introduced a bill entitled SB 386 for a Korean War veterans’ license plate. The bill directs the Department of Transportation to develop a Korean War veterans’ specialty license plate for anyone who desires one. The plate would cost $25 and would read "Support Korean War Veterans" on the bottom. If this bill honoring Korean War veterans were to pass, it would take effect July 1, 2009.

 

Testimonials

"Allied Veterans of the World, Inc. & Affiliates have an outstanding history of supporting VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System's programs and events. Your organization is to be commended for its ongoing dedication and concern that America's heroes, our veterans, know they are not forgotten. We strive to provide quality health care and patient satisfaction; your donations assure our success in accomplishing these objectives."

-Excerpted from a letter, VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System