Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act
Summary
The Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act modifies the existing STEM scholarship program for veterans. It amends Title 38 of the United States Code, specifically Section 3320, to change eligibility requirements and prioritization criteria. The act also extends certain limits on pension payments under Section 5503(d)(7) of Title 38.
Expected Effects
The changes to the STEM scholarship program will likely affect which veterans receive the scholarship and when they can use it. Prioritization will shift towards those who have used more of their educational assistance and those pursuing STEM majors. The extension of pension payment limits provides continued benefits to certain veterans.
Potential Benefits
- Prioritization of Veterans: Prioritizes veterans who have used the most of their educational assistance, potentially helping those closest to exhausting their benefits.
- Focus on STEM Fields: Reinforces the focus on STEM fields, potentially encouraging more veterans to pursue careers in these areas.
- Extension of Pension Limits: Extends pension payment limits, providing continued financial support to eligible veterans.
- Increased Access: By modifying requirements, the bill could increase access to the scholarship for certain veterans.
- Streamlined Requirements: Redesignating paragraphs simplifies the scholarship requirements.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Disadvantage for Some: Changes in prioritization could disadvantage veterans who have used less of their educational assistance.
- Reduced Flexibility: Requiring veterans to use all other educational assistance before using the STEM scholarship reduces flexibility.
- Administrative Burden: Implementing the new prioritization criteria may create additional administrative burden for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Possible unintended consequences: The changes to the requirements could have unintended consequences that negatively impact veterans.
- Limited Scope: The act primarily focuses on modifying existing programs rather than creating new opportunities.
Constitutional Alignment
The act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to provide for the general welfare, and this act aims to support veterans through educational opportunities. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).