Robbins' Legislation Protecting Guard Benefits Sent to Governor

Harrisburg - State Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) announced that the House of Representatives unanimously passed and sent to the Governor legislation he sponsored that would preserve an important education benefit for National Guard members disabled in the line of duty.

"The Educational Assistance Program provides individuals who enlist in the Pennsylvania National Guard a free college education," said Sen. Robbins. "In return, they agree to serve in the Guard for six years. This program is the Guard's number one recruitment tool and has led to Pennsylvania having the strongest and one of the most deployed Guards in the nation. However, if a Guard Member on active duty becomes disabled and can no longer serve in the Guard, they are currently disqualified from the Educational Assistance Program. Senate Bill 1081 would reverse this policy -- thus ensuring an important education benefit for these men and women during a time of need."

Since September 11th, 62 Guard members have been discharged due to medical reasons. Of this, approximately 25 would still be eligible for the Educational Assistance Program.

CONTACT:

Nate Silcox
(717) 787-1322