Joe Holleman
Political correspondent/columnist
Unsuccessful in her first attempt to help veterans get education benefits, U.S. Rep Nikki Budzinski has reintroduced a bill she first proposed in 2023.
Budzinski, a Springfield Democrat who represents parts of Madison and St. Clair counties, reintroduced legislation that would extend the time in which veterans could seek financial help for pursuing careers in science, health care and technology.
Her proposed reforms would eliminate some bureaucratic requirements and make existing scholarships more accessible.
Budzinski first tried to gain passage of the bill in 2023, after a study by the Wounded Warrior Project identified finding employment to be a significant challenge facing female veterans.
The legislation has been endorsed by the Wounded Warrior Project, as well as the Disabled American Veterans, AMVETS and American Legion.
People are also reading…
Budzinski is a member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs.
