University Aviation Association Strongly Opposed To The Bill

A bill sponsored by Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) in the U.S. House of Representatives proposes to cut educational benefits for veterans by $882 million over the next ten years.

As introduced, H.R. 3016: VA Provider Equity Act, would place a cap on total VA reimbursement for veterans in flight training at $20,235 per year if they are involved in a four year aviation degree. The VA would no longer pay for the private pilot license and veterans will be required to shoulder this cost on their own or possess a private pilot license before matriculating into a commercial aviation degree program.

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has estimated that 600 veterans per year will be denied access to flight training with the enactment of this legislation.

The University Aviation Association (UAA) stands united with our member institutions in promoting flight training for all students, including veterans who have served our country. Although this bill was passed in the House, it has not yet been approved by the Senate. Members may contact elected House and Senate members on the House and Senate website.

“This Act is a shortsighted move that will reduce the supply of aviators during a pilot shortage within the National Airspace System," said Dr. Suzanne Kearns, President of the UAA. "It is a severe disservice to veterans, eliminating a benefit that was promised to them in recognition of their service to this country. Lastly, it specifically targets collegiate flight training programs and fails to recognize that this specialized education incurs justifiable expenses beyond those encountered within a traditional degree program. We strongly encourage our UAA institutional and professional members to reach out to their elected representatives to voice opposition to this bill.”

(Source: UAA news release)

FMI: Bill Text