Contact: Vanessa Capobianco
Date: September 28, 2005
Phone: (919) 733-5612

Gov. Easley Signs Military Bills Into Law 

 

RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley today signed into law Senate Bill 725, "N.C. National Guard Tuition Assistance Program Changes," sponsored by Sen. Scott Thomas (D-Carteret, Craven, Pamlico).  Easley also signed Senate Bill 1117, "2005 Military Support Act," sponsored by Sen. Tony Rand (D-Bladen, Cumberland).

"We must continue to show our thanks, both in supplies and support, for the work these men and women are doing," said Easley. "This legislation helps us support our soldiers and guardsmen and their families before, during and after they answer the call to duty."

Senate Bill 725 amends N.C.G.S. 127A-193 and 195.  The bill increases the academic year tuition cap from $2,000 to the highest charged tuition at a state university or community college, which is currently estimated at $4,500.  All guardsmen are eligible for this $4,500 in assistance and can apply for remaining funds to cover the cost of required course books and materials.

For example, if tuition at a university is $3,000 and books cost $400, then a guardsman would receive the $3,000 for tuition costs and could apply for additional funds to cover the cost of the books. In total, the guardsman could receive $3,400 in assistance. The bill also removes the lifetime cap of $8,000 for tuition assistance. 

"Members of our National Guard have served our state and our country well for many years. It is our responsibility to provide assistance for them when they need it," said Sen. Thomas. "The tuition assistance bill will be a tremendous help to members of our National Guard as they continue their education."

Senate Bill 1117 includes eight wide-ranging provisions to support servicemen and women and their families.  It allows retired armed services personnel and their dependents to receive in-state tuition at state universities and community colleges.  In addition, it directs the State Board of Education to review and revise policies to ensure that military family students receive high school credit for comparable courses taken out of state.

The legislation also makes it easier for military spouses to acquire professional licenses in the state. Furthermore, Senate Bill 1117 allows members of the armed forces to terminate rental agreements early before being deployed for 90 days or more.

"In the midst of the increased pressures being placed on our military, their families, and bases, North Carolina must find ways to support morale in our armed forces" said Sen. Rand. "This legislation is another step in providing support for these deserving men and women."

North Carolina's military presence is one of the largest in the country. The state is home to six major military bases and more than 100,000 military personnel. Since Sept. 11, 2001, more than 9,000 N.C. guardsmen have been called to active duty here and overseas. The state's total force of guardsmen stands at about 11,700, and about 1,800 men and women are currently serving on federal active duty.