Congressman Ruppersberger and the New GI Bill

I received an email from my Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger, thanking me for my interest in veterans affairs and providing information on the latest GI Bill.

I must confess that I have never expressed interest in veterans' affairs, an oversight on my part, so I thought I would share the information with my readers.



September 22, 2009


Mr. Michael Wolfe
123 Carolstowne Road
Reisterstown, Maryland 21136

Dear Mr. Wolfe:

Knowing of your interest in veterans' affairs, I am proactively reaching out to my constituents to update you on landmark legislation that gives veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars the opportunity to a first-class education and future. I believe we should always take care of the brave men and women of the armed forces who have sacrificed themselves in defense of our country and our liberties. Our country is indebted to our veterans as well as their families. An affordable college education is one way to demonstrate our respect and gratitude for their service.

I was proud to support the post-9/11 GI bill, which Congress passed in June 2008 and took effect last month. This bill is the most extensive educational assistance program authorized since the original GI Bill was signed into law in 1944. It enables veterans, active service members, reservists and National Guard members a chance to receive a free, in-state, undergraduate college education at a public institution, including housing, books and supplies. Unused benefits can be transferred to veterans' spouses and children.

I think it is important that we balance the varied needs of our country's "new" veterans with the growing and changing needs of veterans from previous conflicts. An estimated 500,000 veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan are expected to take advantage of the bill this year alone. The bill provides financial support to veterans with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. Veterans must be honorably discharged to be eligible for the program.

The application process is complicated. I understand many who want to take advantage of this exciting opportunity will have questions about their benefits. For more information, please contact my office, or visit www.newgibill.org, a comprehensive resource that includes frequently asked questions, real-time bill updates, benefit calculators and eligibility requirements. You can also call 1-888-442-4551.

I think it is very important to communicate frequently with my constituents. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my office or access my website at www.dutch.house.gov.

Sincerely,
C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger
Member of Congress