Soldier Family Tuition Bill Passed

Legislation that would grant free college tuition to the families of fallen soldiers has been approved by a state legislative committee.

Monday, February 23rd 2009, 2:24 pm

By: News On 6

Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Legislation that would grant free college tuition to the families of fallen soldiers has been approved by a state legislative committee.

The "Hero's Promise Act" by Rep. Eric Proctor of Tulsa would provide in-state tuition waivers to the dependents of Oklahoma military servicemen and women killed in the line of duty for up to four years.

Currently, as many as 249 Oklahoma students could benefit from the bill. They would save about $2,612 in annual tuition based on the average cost at all state colleges and universities.

Proctor says the bill is the least Oklahomans can do for the dependents of troops who give their lives for their country.

The state House Appropriations and Budget Committee passed the bill Monday and sent it on the state House floor for a vote.