HARRISBURG − July 10, 2025 − On July 7, 2025, House Bill 865, originally introduced by Senator Lindsey Williams (D-38) and Senator Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) adopted by the state House of Representatives, was signed into law as Act 32 of 2025.
Pennsylvania became a national leader in educational benefits for National Guard members when it launched the Military Family Education Program (MFEP) in 2019. The MFEP, similar to the well-known GI Bill, covers the cost of a state-system college education for a dependent of a member of the National Guard as a benefit for a six-year enlistment.
“As a U.S. Army veteran, I know first-hand the important role the National Guard and their family members play in serving this great nation,” said Sen. Pennycuick. “It’s imperative that we incentivize their continued service to ensure we keep these talented men and women in our ranks.”
“The PA GI Bill was my first piece of legislation signed into law after taking office,” said Sen. Williams. “I was incredibly proud to give back to our Guard Members and their families by supporting their education. 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.”
Many Guard members who benefited from the MFEP are deciding whether to enlist for another six years. There is a need to clarify that a Guard member is eligible for an additional MFEP assistance grant for additional dependents each time the member re-enlists. The law guarantees this MFEP benefit in the Military and Veterans Code of the Commonwealth and ensures that Members who are honorably discharged receive a proportional benefit for their service.