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Robbins' Bill Protecting Guard Benefits Passes State Senate
HARRISBURG -- Today,
the Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) that would
preserve a valuable benefit for National Guard Members disabled in the line of
duty.
“Ten years ago, the General
Assembly passed groundbreaking legislation to assist the National Guard,” said
Sen. Robbins. “Today, the Educational Assistance Program offers Guard members a
free, five-year college education. In exchange, they must serve in the Guard
for six years. This program has become the Guard's number one recruitment tool
and has led to Pennsylvania having the strongest and one of the most deployed
Guards in the nation. However, if a Guard Member becomes disabled and can no
longer serve in the Guard, they are disqualified from the Educational Assistance
Program.”
Since September 11th, 62
Guard members have been discharged due to medical reasons. Of this,
approximately 25 would still be eligible for the Educational Assistance Program.
“Senate Bill 1081 would
ensure that these men and women would not lose their eligibility for this
important education program if they were injured serving their nation,” said
Robbins.
Senate Bill 1081 now proceeds to the House for
further action.
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