Bachmann, Kline vote against updated GI Bill for veterans

The House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a major expansion of the GI Bill yesterday. The legislation passed by a 266-156 margin, with 32 Republicans joining Democrats in voting for the measure. Rep. Jim Ramstad was among the GOP legislators who supported the bill, but fellow Minnesota Republicans Michele Bachmann and John Kline voted against it. All five Democrats backed the measure.

The 21st Century GI Bill would vastly increase benefits for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The legislation would entitle soldiers to four years of tuition at a level equivalent to the most expensive in-state public university, along with a stipend for housing and books. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the increased benefits would cost $52 billion over the next decade. House Democrats proposed paying for the measure with .5 percent surtax on individuals with incomes greater than $500,000 and families who make more than $1 million. The education benefits would kick in after three years of military service. This Boston Globe piece does a nice job of laying out the shortcomings of the present tuition benefits for returning soldiers.

The Senate is expected to take up the GI Bill next week. Sen. John McCain has come under attack for opposing the measure. President Bush has threatened to veto the legislation.