Veterans education program consolidation

Statutory references to veterans higher education programs will be modified, including repealing one, which should result in a simplified benefit application and administration process for veterans and their families.

The law, effective Aug. 1, 2026, includes closure of a rarely used $750 educational benefit that is currently available to veterans, but preserves that benefit for the surviving spouse and dependents of a prisoner of war (POW), a servicemember missing in action (MIA), or a deceased veteran. Veterans rarely used the benefit in recent years due to increased benefits for the Minnesota GI Bill and changes to a federal post-9/11 GI Bill.

Also included is some technical and administrative updates.

Rep. Josiah Hill (DFL-Stillwater) and Sen. Judy Seeberger (DFL-Afton) are the sponsors.

HF3741*/SF3957/CH49

HF3741* / SF3957 / CH49