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Minutes for HB2541 - Committee on Education
Short Title
Amendments to the Kansas National Guard educational assistance act.
Minutes Content for Thu, Feb 8, 2018
Chairperson Aurand opened the hearing on HB2541.
Revisor Jason Long summarized the bill. It amends the Kansas National Guard Educational Assistance Act, which provides financial assistance to national guard members enrolled in a Kansas college or university. It would authorize financial assistance up to 15 credit hours each semester and changes the eligibility requirements. (Attachment 1)
Major General Lee Taffenelli testified in support of the bill and stated that the state tuition scholarship benefit has been part of the recruitment and retention tool kit for many years. The upcoming Governor's budget fully funds this program for the first time. He explained that it is increasingly difficult to find eligible recruits who are willing and able to join the Guard. This legislation would enhance the ability of the Guard to attract good men and women to join. (Attachment 2)
Major Nicky Inskeep testified in support and stated that as a commander she had the opportunity to counsel her soldiers on the use of their benefits. This opportunity allowed them to gain experience and education and bring these skills back to their units. She stated that this benefit greatly contributes to the sustainment of our Kansas Guard. (Attachment 3)
Retired Colonel John Becker spoke in support and explained that his organization represents military officers, past, present and future. He testified that the program needs to be fully funded so that it is part of the support system for Guard members. He testified that it ensures all Guard members may attend a Kansas institution and remain in Kansas. (Attachment 4)
Chief Master Sargent Troy Abel spoke as a proponent for the bill. He advocates for enlisted members of the air and national guard of Kansas and shared that this assistance fund is an important benefit for guardsmen. He shared several examples of how the scholarship has allowed individuals to live better lives. It not only attracts good men and women to the National Guard but supports the families and children of those who have served. (Attachment 5)
Written testimony in support of the bill was submitted by:
Dr. Blake Flanders, Kansas Board of Regents (Attachment 6)
Steve Kearney, representing Kansas Technical Colleges (Attachment 7)
Linda Fund, Executive Director, Kansas Association of Community College Trustees (Attachment 8)
Dr. Swender, President, Garden City Community College (Attachment 9)
There were no neutral conferees or opponents.
The Chairperson closed the hearing on HB2541.
