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Virginia lawmakers have passed a full repeal of changes to a military family tuition waiver program, adding $90 million from a revenue surplus to the program over the next two years. The program had seen exponential growth in recent years, and the repeal sought to balance support for military families without financially burdening other students. Governor Glenn Youngkin signed the legislation, emphasizing the importance of honoring military heroes and their families. The repeal bill received unanimous approval in both chambers of the General Assembly, avoiding the need for a conference committee.

Various groups are studying the viability of the tuition waiver program, and a report is expected by September 1. The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program provides tuition waivers and stipends to spouses and children of veterans who qualify, with costs nearly quadrupling in recent years. Lawmakers addressed concerns about skyrocketing program costs, taking measures to limit eligibility and require applicants to seek other sources of aid first.

The repeal bill has generated bipartisan support and criticism, with some lawmakers advocating for tighter cost controls while others accuse opponents of being anti-military. Lawmakers did not address a proposal to repeal a ban on skill games, opting to postpone that issue for a later special session. Overall, the quick and unanimous passage of the repeal bill signifies a resolution to a contentious issue surrounding military family support in Virginia.

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