(NASHVILLE) — Monday evening, Republican lawmakers unanimously passed legislation sponsored by State Representative Tilman Goins (R-Morristown) that makes it easier for Tennessee National Guard members to obtain a college degree.
House Bill 530, also known as the Support, Training and Renewing Opportunity for National Guardsmen (STRONG) Act, provides an opportunity for those who protect and serve our state to receive their bachelor’s degree. Currently in Tennessee, 28 percent of veterans have some college or an associate’s degree, while 24 percent have a bachelor’s degree.
To be eligible, current Tennessee National Guard members need to be in good standing, have applied for federal tuition assistance, and also be admitted to any Tennessee public community college, public university, or private college or university which is regionally accredited. The student must also maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
“As a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and United States Army, I am honored to have guided the STRONG Act through the legislative process,” said Representative Goins. “Our military servicemen and women have already made great sacrifices so that we can enjoy the safety and freedom that have become the fabric of our society. This legislation ensures they will not have to sacrifice their educational dreams for fear of financial struggle.”
House Bill 530 also creates a competitive edge in recruiting for the Tennessee National Guard. It is part of Governor Haslam’s legislative package for the year, which is traditionally handled by the House Majority Leader. Because of Representative Goins’ leadership abilities, however, he was handpicked to carry the bill.
“We are grateful to Representative Goins for his service time and knew he was the ideal person to shepherd this important bill through the legislative process,” said House Majority Leader Glen Casada (R-Thompson’s Station). “We are appreciative of his leadership in helping us with the passage of the STRONG Act and believe it will substantially benefit Tennessee’s servicemen and women.”
The full text of House Bill 530 can be accessed by visiting the Tennessee General Assembly website at: http://www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/110/Bill/HB0530.pdf
Tilman Goins serves as Chairman of the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee. He is also a member of the House Criminal Justice and House Business & Utilities Committee. Goins lives in Morristown and represents House District 10, which includes Hamblen County. He can be reached by email at [email protected] or by calling (615) 741-6877.
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