NW Valley Times

On March 13, 2025, Congressman Abe Hamadeh from Arizona's 8th district and Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski from Illinois' 13th district introduced the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act. The bipartisan legislation aims to support veterans pursuing degrees in science, healthcare, and technology.

Congressman Hamadeh emphasized the non-partisan nature of addressing veterans' needs, advocating for government programs centered on benefiting veterans. The proposed legislation seeks to modify the existing requirements of the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship to make it more accessible and responsive to veterans' needs. Hamadeh argues against the necessity for applicants to exhaust their Post 9-11/GI Bill benefits before applying.

The bill previously passed with unanimous bipartisan support and removes the requirement for veterans to be within six months of exhausting their benefits before applying. Congressman Hamadeh stated, "As a Veteran, I know how important opportunities like those provided in this program are to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our great and grateful nation." He noted that 3,500 veterans have utilized the scholarship over three years to pursue STEM degrees.

Congresswoman Budzinski highlighted financial challenges faced by veterans post-service. She stated that reforming the scholarship program will enable more veterans to enhance their skills for high-demand roles. "I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Congressman Hamadeh," she said.

The American Legion, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Student Veterans of America (SVA), and AMVETS endorse the legislation. Joy Ilem from DAV praised the act as a "bipartisan solution" that empowers veterans with necessary educational resources. Tammy Barlet from SVA commended Representatives Budzinski and Hamadeh for advancing this important legislation.