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Gov. McMaster celebrates veteran education bill at USC Aiken ceremony
Aiken Standard - 11/30/2021
Nov. 30—S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster at a Tuesday ceremony at USC Aiken signed a bill that makes it easier for veterans and their dependents to pursue higher education, a move officials believe brings the state one step closer to being the most military-friendly in the nation.
The Republican governor put pen to paper while flanked by members of the Aiken County Legislative Delegation and representatives of USCA, a school that has repeatedly been ranked among the best for those who have served.
State Sen. Tom Young, an Aiken Republican, sponsored the bill, which made its way through the Legislature earlier this year and went into effect in May.
Young on Tuesday described the bill as a win "for veterans of South Carolina" and the broader military community. It builds upon an earlier measure, signed some six years ago by then-Gov. Nikki Haley.
"The veterans tuition legislation will allow all veterans, regardless of residency status, to attend college in our state with in-state tuition rates," the senator said during the event. "And the change that goes into effect with this legislation ... is there is no longer a requirement that they do so within three years of discharge."
McMaster said the legislation — which closes a GI Bill gap — serves as a thank you to veterans while also welcoming them to the Palmetto State. Veterans are serious students, the governor said, "and they come in with a background that is beneficial to our state in so many ways."
Veterans make up 7% of the USCA student body, according to Chancellor Dr. Daniel Heimmermann. The chancellor said the university is proud to prioritize and support veterans, citing the on-campus Veteran and Military Student Success Center, among other services and accolades.
"We all know how important this Military Tuition Rates is for our veterans," Heimmermann said.
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