Harrisburg, PA − June 24, 2025 − Today, the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee unanimously advanced legislation aimed at strengthening and modernizing Pennsylvania’s Educational Assistance Program and the Military Family Education Program.
Senator Tracy Pennycuick (R-Berks, Montgomery) and Senator Lindsey M. Williams (D-Allegheny) have worked with the Pennsylvania National Guard, PHEAA, and other stakeholders to make improvements to the programs since the Military Family Education Program – also known as the “PA GI Bill” – was signed into law in 2019.
“The PA GI Bill was the first piece of legislation that I had signed by the Governor,” said Senator Williams. “I was incredibly proud to give back to our Guard Members and their families by supporting their education, and it is my honor to listen to their feedback and make improvements to the programs to better reward and recognize their incredible service to the Commonwealth and our country.”
“As a U.S. Army veteran, I know how important education benefits are to service members,” said Sen. Pennycuick. “Expanding these benefits to encourage continuing education will further help our military personnel as they continue their career in the Armed Forces or return to civilian life.”
Under the existing programs, Pennsylvania National Guard members earn education benefits for themselves and their families when they commit to six years of service.
SB870/HB865 makes meaningful updates to better support the military community.
These updates include:
- Allowing multiple uses of the program for Guard Members who reenlist for multiple periods of service;
- Expanding permissible uses of the benefit to include refresher, remedial, or preparatory courses required in pursuit of an approved program of education;
- Providing a proportional benefit to Members who are honorably discharged prior to the completion of their service.
HB865 now moves to the full Senate for a vote.
###