Veterans

This bill modifies the Iowa National Guard service scholarship program, which helps eligible Iowa National Guard members pay for college tuition. It establishes that scholarship awards cannot exceed the difference between a student's tuition and any financial aid they receive under specific federal military programs (10 U.S.C. §2007). Additionally, the bill removes a provision that previously prohibited scholarship eligibility or award determinations from being based on a National Guard member's unit, drill location, or whether they are in the Army or Air National Guard.

This bill updates requirements for county commissions of veteran affairs and their executive directors or administrators in Iowa. It mandates that these directors or administrators obtain specific training and certification directed by the commandant of the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs within one year of employment, or face removal from office. They must also acquire a personal identification verification card to access veteran benefits systems and complete continuing education only from state-approved entities. Additionally, the bill changes the reporting period for veteran service hours from a calendar year to a fiscal year and removes a previous requirement for training from a national association.