Rep. Tom Dermody (R-LaPorte) co-sponsored the bill in the House of Representatives. Last year, the Indiana General Assembly created a law allowing Purple Heart recipients who served active duty after Sept. 10, 2001, to apply for the tuition and fee exemption. Senate Bill 39 will expand those eligible for the exemption to include all veterans who have received the honor of a Purple Heart. The exemption has been available to the children of these veterans for many years, and they will retain eligibility under Senate Bill 39. "Providing for the men and women who fought bravely for our country is something the legislature is proud to do," said Rep. Dermody. "It's a privilege to give these distinguished Purple Hearts recipients expanded educational opportunities." If Gov. Daniels signs the bill into law, it will become effective July 1, 2009. Those interested in tracking this and other bills that have survived the journey to the governor's desk can visit http://www.in.gov/gov/billwatch.htm. -30- |
