FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wyss: Hoosier Purple Heart recipients may
receive free tuition at state universities
(STATEHOUSE) – Post Sept. 11 military veterans decorated with the Purple Heart could pursue a bachelor’s or associate’s degree at a state university tuition free, if a bill sponsored by Sen. Tom Wyss (R-Fort Wayne) becomes law.
Currently, a child of a Hoosier Purple Heart recipient—but not the recipients themselves—are entitled to a free tuition benefit. House Bill 1249 passed on third reading today in the Senate by a vote of 47-0.
“This important legislation could help the many Hoosiers who serve in our armed forces,” Wyss said. “We owe them a great deal of gratitude for their service and this bill would provide resources to aid in their educational goals.”
“I believe affording the opportunity for higher education to these veterans who have shed blood for our nation will help them achieve the future they desire,” Wyss said.
The Purple Heart recipient, their children and spouse, would have to be enrolled full time in order to receive the free tuition benefit. Indiana’ department of veteran’s affairs would determine a service member’s eligibility.
Purple Heart awards are given to soldiers wounded in combat and about 261 Hoosiers have received the award since Sept. 10, 2001. The Purple Heart – formerly known as the Badge of Military Merit by General George Washington – was the first American award available to the common soldier and now the world’s oldest military decoration in use.
Sen. Wyss represents Senate District 15, which includes a portion of Allen County.
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