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The Virginia Senate reconvened to discuss lifting new restrictions on a college tuition program for military families but was unable to reach an agreement on Monday. The legislation in question waives tuition and fees at public colleges and universities for spouses and children of veterans disabled or killed in the line of duty. However, Democrats in the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee did not vote on the repeal bill passed by the House, citing constitutional flaws.

Governor Glenn Youngkin met with Democratic leaders to propose various solutions, including fully repealing the restrictions for one year, but failed to reach an agreement. Consequently, the Senate failed to advance any legislation, disappointing military families who gathered at the Capitol in hopes of prompt action.

The program, created in 1930, has expanded over the years, leading to increased costs that universities have struggled to cover. The restrictions aimed to manage rising expenditures but faced strong opposition from military families. Despite attempts to find a compromise, House and Senate leaders have been at odds over the best approach to address the issue.

The House unanimously passed a bill to fully repeal the changes, while the Senate leaned towards retaining some restrictions. Ultimately, disagreements between the parties led to a stalemate in the Senate, leaving the issue unresolved. The uncertainties surrounding the program remain a concern for military families, with no immediate plans for the Senate to reconvene.

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