Congressman Eric Sorensen of Illinois has introduced new bipartisan legislation aimed at ensuring Air National Guard members receive the same federal tuition assistance already provided to the Army National Guard. The Air Guard STATUS Act would establish permanent federal tuition support for Drill Status Guardsmen nationwide. Supporters, including several National Guard associations, emphasize that this move creates educational equity, strengthens recruitment and retention, and invests in the future of those serving. Illinois currently offers state-level tuition help, but Congressman Sorensen notes that not every state does. The Senate version of the bill is backed by Senators Hoeven, Shaheen, Bennet, and Moran.
“Here in Illinois, our state already does the right thing by offering tuition support for Guardsmen attending public colleges,” said Congressman Sorensen. “But not every state provides that help. Our Airmen serve our communities and our country, and they should have equal access to education benefits no matter where they live. This bill makes sure that Air National Guard members across America get the support they deserve.”
“I’m proud to join Rep. Sorensen in introducing the Air Guard STATUS Act, which will deliver much needed educational assistance to the brave men and women serving in the Air National Guard and create parity with the benefits afforded to the Army National Guard. This legislation will ensure deserved benefits and recognition reach all DSG members of the National Guard who have answered the call to serve our great nation,” said Rep. Brad Finstad.
“The STATUS Act is about finally closing a gap that should’ve never existed. It gives Air National Guard members the same federal tuition assistance the Army National Guard already receives, helping recruit, retain, and take care of the Airmen who keep our communities and our country safe. We value their service and investing in their education is one of the clearest ways to show it.” said. Rep. Sam Graves
“Our Guardsmen give so much to their communities and to our nation. One way to show gratitude is to invest in their future through federal tuition assistance,” said retired Maj Gen. Francis M. McGinn, NGAUS president. “We must equally provide for our Soldiers and our Airmen. This bill creates equity in education benefits and will empower our Airmen to reach new heights in knowledge and skill. We thank Congressmen Sorensen and Finstad for their efforts and continued support of the National Guard.”
“Air National Guard members serve this nation with the same commitment and professionalism as every other component of the Armed Forces,” said CSM (Ret) John Gipe, Executive Director for the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS). “Ensuring that Air Guard personnel have access to equal educational benefits is not only a matter of fairness, but also essential to strengthening recruitment, retention, and readiness across the force. We strongly support this bipartisan effort to bring the Air National Guard in line with the educational support provided to the Army Guard and other branches, and we urge Congress to act quickly to give these Airmen the opportunities they have earned through their service.”
“Equal access to education is essential for the success of our Guard and Reserve communities,” said Steve Patterson, Executive Director at the Veterans Education Project. “Bringing Air National Guard tuition benefits in line with other service components will remove an unnecessary barrier and ensure these Airmen have the same opportunity to pursue their education and advance their careers. This bipartisan fix is a smart, targeted step toward true parity for military-connected students.”
