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The Virginia General Assembly voted unanimously to fully restore the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Program, which offers free tuition at public universities for families of veterans injured or killed in the line of duty. The state budget earlier this year contained cuts to the program, sparking outrage among military families. After weeks of back-and-forth, lawmakers finally agreed to set aside $45 million annually over the next two years to support the program. The issue will be revisited in the regular session in January to find a long-term solution. Governor Glenn Youngkin, who initially sought the cutbacks, signed the measures into law, emphasizing Virginia’s commitment to its military community. Lawmakers recognized the need to address the program’s growing costs to ensure its sustainability without burdening students with financial aid.

The legislation drew diverse reactions from legislators, with Republicans celebrating the agreement and Democrats stressing the program’s need for further evaluation. Military families expressed frustration with the drawn-out process and the lack of clarity around the changes. While families welcomed the restoration of the program, they remained skeptical about its long-term stability. Many had actively lobbied for the program’s reinstatement, emphasizing the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by military families. Lawmakers acknowledged the need to listen to stakeholders and work towards a sustainable solution that secures the future of the program. The issue served as a reminder of the enduring challenges faced by military families and the importance of maintaining support for these communities.

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