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The Virginia General Assembly passed bills to reverse changes made to the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP) that were met with backlash from military families. The new legislation designates $90 million to sustain the program for the next two years. Lawmakers acknowledged that the changes made to downsize the program were a mistake, with some pointing fingers at the governor’s administration for initiating the changes.

Military spouse Kayla Owen played a significant role in advocating for the preservation of the VMSDEP program, urging lawmakers to be transparent in their decision-making process. Despite legal challenges, the legislature repealed the changes and allocated new funding to support the program. Governor Glenn Youngkin signed the bills and emphasized the importance of supporting military families in Virginia.

Moving forward, the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission will conduct a study on VMSDEP, and Youngkin’s task force will analyze the program as well. Lawmakers are expected to address the sustainability of the program in the long term during the 2025 legislative session. For now, advocates like Kayla Owen view the recent legislative actions as a temporary relief until further adjustments can be made.

The Virginia Mercury, a nonprofit news network, reported on the developments surrounding VMSDEP and highlighted the ongoing efforts to support military families. The editorial independence of Virginia Mercury ensures the objective coverage of important issues like education benefits for veterans and their families.

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Photo credit wydaily.com