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Press Release

September 30, 2009

Contact: Aaron Hunter 202-225-2040

davispress@mail.house.gov

 

Rep. Susan Davis Spurs VA to Action on Thousands of Delayed GI Bill Benefits

Hundreds of San Diego Veterans to get tuition help

Washington, DC – Hundreds of San Diego veterans will be able to further their education as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced its intent to send out emergency checks for tuition assistance.  The VA action comes just days after a letter sent by Rep. Susan Davis (D-San Diego) urged the department to provide the payments.

“I appreciate Secretary Shinseki rectifying this problem,” said Davis.  “I have heard from so many veterans whose education has been put on hold because their tuition checks were tied up in red tape.   This news will be a relief to those veterans who are eager to expand their horizons and advance their education.”

After hearing of the problem, Davis wrote to the VA asking it to resolve the issue of veterans not getting their Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits.  

In the letter Davis noted, “Many of these veterans do not have additional means of income to pay the tuition directly to the educational institution.  The situation leaves many veterans in a very difficult position.”

Days later, Secretary Shinseki announced that checks for $3,000 would be distributed to veterans who have applied for their education benefits but have yet to receive them.

According to the VA, there are approximately 25,000 nationwide claims pending that may result in payments to students. The benefits will be available October 2, 2009.

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