H.R. 6377: This act may be cited as the “Gold Star Siblings Educational Benefits Act

This bill, named the “Gold Star Siblings Educational Benefits Act,” proposes changes to the educational assistance programs provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The primary aim of the bill is to extend educational benefits to the siblings of certain veterans who have died or become permanently disabled due to their military service.

Key Provisions

The main changes outlined in the bill include:

• Siblings Included in Benefit Eligibility: The bill amends existing laws to include siblings as eligible recipients of educational assistance. Previously, only spouses and children of veterans were considered eligible. This change allows for the inclusion of a sibling in several educational assistance programs.
• Definition of Sibling: The bill provides a clear definition of "sibling" to mean a brother or sister, regardless of whether they are related by blood, adoption, or recognized guardianship.
• Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program: The eligibility criteria for this program will be updated to reflect that siblings can benefit, in the same way that spouses and children have been eligible.
• Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship: Similar amendments will apply to this scholarship, which provides educational benefits to children and spouses of service members who died in the line of duty. Siblings will now be included as well.
• Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program: The bill expands eligibility under this program as well, allowing siblings of eligible veterans to receive assistance. The definition of “dependent” is also revised to encompass siblings.
• Age Limitations: Siblings will be able to use the educational benefits until they turn 26 years old. For some situations, especially where the sibling is a primary caregiver for a veteran, the age limit may extend, allowing them to access benefits beyond age 26 under certain conditions.

Implementation Provisions

The bill includes specific provisions for how and when siblings can start using their educational benefits, particularly in cases where they are caregivers for veterans.

Potential Impact

This change is expected to offer additional educational opportunities for siblings who have lost a service member, acknowledging the sacrifices made by not just parents and children, but siblings as well. The inclusion of siblings may help address the emotional and financial challenges faced by these individuals after the loss of a family member in service.

Relevant Companies

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