Bill would waive tuition for guardsmen

By

The Associated Press

First Sgt. Mark Ridgeway of the Maine Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion offers some advice to nine soldiers who have successfully completed their basic and initial training phases at their last drill as part of the Recruit Sustainment Program. The soldiers were introduced to representatives from their respective units, and will now go on to fulfill their duties in those roles. The RSP program helps new recruits prepare for basic training and army life by offering them an introduction to the army before they ship off for training. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Angela Parady)

AUGUSTA, Maine — State lawmakers will consider a bill this session that would waive in-state college tuition costs for Maine National Guard members.

The bill would provide a 100 percent tuition waiver for certain members of the Maine National Guard. It would apply at any school in the University of Maine System, Maine Community College System and Maine Maritime Academy.

House Republican Leader Ken Fredette says the measure will help the Guard recruit members while providing an education to many who may not otherwise be able to afford it. Fredette is a lieutenant colonel serving as a judge advocate general in the Maine Air National Guard.

A bipartisan group of lawmakers is urging support for the bill. Fredette was joined at the Statehouse on Wednesday by several lawmakers who are backing it.

WCSH-TV reports that UMaine System Chancellor James Page said in a statement that he looks forward to working with lawmakers to explore “all viable opportunities” to reduce education costs for National Guard members.

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The Associated Press