STATEHOUSE (Feb. 19, 2013) — State Sen. Ron Grooms’ (R-Jeffersonville) bill to reduce veterans’ college costs unanimously passed the Senate today.

Senate Bill 177 would make honorably discharged veterans immediately eligible for in-state tuition rates at Indiana’s state colleges and universities, regardless of whether they have lived in Indiana long enough to meet the school’s residency requirements.

Grooms said he authored the bill because too often returning veterans who served out of state or overseas do not qualify for in-state college tuition, even if they lived here before volunteering to serve. He said SB 177 works to correct this and make sure Hoosier veterans have access to affordable, high-quality higher education.

“This is just one more way to support the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving our country,” Grooms said. “It is my hope this legislation will help prepare veterans for long-term employment and establish a solid financial foundation for themselves and their families.”

To qualify for the tuition benefit, veterans would be required to enroll in a state college or university within one year of discharge or separation from the armed forces, and meet one of the following criteria:

•    Apply to vote in Indiana.
•    Obtain a driver’s license or state identification card.
•    Register a motor vehicle in Indiana.
•    Provide proof of employment in Indiana.

SB 177 passed the Senate by a 49-0 vote and now heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Its sponsor in the House is Rep. Jim Baird (R-Greencastle).

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A high-resolution photo of Grooms is now available in the Caucus Photo Gallery at http://www.in.gov/legislative/senate_republicans/2355.htm