Yesterday the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010 (S. 3447).

The Act updates the original Post-9/11 GI Bill by addressing current implementation problems and making the policies more relevant to the needs of today’s veterans.

The final bill makes several changes to the current legislation.

• Implements a benefit cap of $17,500 for beneficiaries who attend a private institution or an out-of-state institution.
• Extends benefits to those in the National Guard and Reserve
• Implements a “last-payer” provision which requires GI Benefits to be reduced by other aid that is specifically designated for the sole purpose of tuition and fees.
• Excludes a “hold harmless” provision that would have protected veterans who are currently in the program.

The Act now goes to the President for his signature.