Existing law establishes the University of California, administered by the Regents of the University of California, the California State University, administered by the Trustees of the California State University, and the California Community Colleges, administered by the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges, as the 3 segments of public postsecondary education in the state. The Donahoe Higher Education Act prohibits the campuses of those segments from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to specified students who apply for a waiver, including a child of any veteran of the United States military who has a service-connected disability, has been killed in service, or has died of a service-connected disability, an undergraduate student who is a recipient of a Medal of Honor, or an undergraduate student who is a child of a recipient of a Medal of Honor and who is no more than 27 years of age, if certain requirements are satisfied.

This bill would require the California State University and each community college district, and would request the University of California, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, commencing with the 202829 academic year, to grant priority for registration for enrollment to (1) a student who receives a fee waiver pursuant to the above-described provisions, and (2) a student who is using any federal GI Bill benefits. By requiring students to receive priority registration at community college districts, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.

Existing law establishes the University of California, administered by the Regents of the University of California, the California State University, administered by the Trustees of the California State University, and the California Community Colleges, administered by the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges, as the 3 segments of public postsecondary education in the state. The Donahoe Higher Education Act prohibits the campuses of those segments from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to specified students who apply for a waiver, including a child of any veteran of the United States military who has a service-connected disability, has been killed in service, or has died of a service-connected disability, an undergraduate student who is a recipient of a Medal of Honor, or an undergraduate student who is a child of a recipient of a Medal of Honor and who is no more than 27 years of age, if certain requirements are satisfied.

This bill would require the California State University and each community college district, and would request the University of California, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, commencing with the 202829 academic year, to grant priority for registration for enrollment to (1) a student who receives a fee waiver pursuant to the above-described provisions, and (2) a student who is using any federal GI Bill benefits. By requiring students to receive priority registration at community college districts, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.

Existing law establishes the University of California, administered by the Regents of the University of California, the California State University, administered by the Trustees of the California State University, and the California Community Colleges, administered by the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges, as the 3 segments of public postsecondary education in the state. The Donahoe Higher Education Act prohibits the campuses of those segments from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to specified students who apply for a waiver, including a child of any veteran of the United States military who has a service-connected disability, has been killed in service, or has died of a service-connected disability, an undergraduate student who is a recipient of a Medal of Honor, or an undergraduate student who is a child of a recipient of a Medal of Honor and who is no more than 27 years of age, if certain requirements are satisfied.

This bill would require the California State University and each community college district, and would request the University of California, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, commencing with the 202829 academic year, to grant priority for registration for enrollment to (1) a student who receives a fee waiver pursuant to the above-described provisions, and (2) a student who is using any federal GI Bill benefits. By requiring students to receive priority registration at community college districts, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.

 THIRD READING  

Bill No: AB 2203

Author: Tangipa (R)

Introduced: 2/19/26

Vote: 21

SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE: 7-0, 6/10/26

AYES: Pérez, Ochoa Bogh, Cabaldon, Choi, Cortese, Menjivar, Reyes

SENATE MILITARY & VETERANS COMMITTEE: 4-0, 6/22/26

AYES: Archuleta, McNerney, Menjivar, Umberg

NO VOTE RECORDED: Grove

SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: 7-0, 8/13/26

AYES: Cervantes, Seyarto, Cabaldon, Dahle, Grayson, Richardson, Wahab

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 77-0, 5/14/26 (Consent) - See last page for vote

SUBJECT: Public postsecondary education: priority registration: veterans and dependents of veterans: federal GI Bill

SOURCE: Author

DIGEST:

This bill requires, commencing with the 2028-29 academic year, each campus of the California State University (CSU) and California Community Colleges (CCCs), and requests each campus of the University of California (UC) that administers a priority enrollment system, to grant priority to recipients of federal GI Bill benefits and recipients of the specified state fee waiver for military-connected students.

ANALYSIS:

Existing law:

1. Prohibits UC, CSU, and CCC from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to specified students who apply for a California Department of Veterans Affairs fee waiver, as specified, including:
   1. A child of any veteran of the United States military who has a service-connected disability, has been killed in service, or has died of a service-connected disability, as specified;
   2. A dependent, or a surviving spouse who has not remarried, of any member of the California National Guard who, in the line of duty, and while in the active service of the state, was killed, died of a disability resulting from an event that occurred while in the active service of the state, or is permanently disabled as a result of an event that occurred while in the active service of the state; as specified;
   3. An undergraduate student who is a recipient of a Medal of Honor, commonly known as a Congressional Medal of Honor, or an undergraduate student who is a child of a recipient of a Medal of Honor and who is no more than 27 years old, as specified; and,
   4. Specifies that it shall determine the eligibility of any applicant for a fee waiver. (Education Code (EC) § 66025.3, et seq.)
2. Requires the CSU and requests the UC to grant priority registration for enrollment to students employed as first responders, as defined. (EC § 66025.82)
3. Establishes the California Military Department GI Bill Award Program for persons who are active members of the California National Guard, the State Guard, or the Naval Militia to use toward obtaining a certificate, degree, or diploma. In order to qualify for an award, current law requires that the member agree to serve at least two years upon completion of the last academic period that the person uses educational assistance under the program and is required to complete their course of study within 10 years of initial acceptance into the program. Existing law also establishes the eligibility criteria for an award and specifies the qualifying institutions for which the award may be used. (EC § 69999.16)
4. Establishes various educational benefits for dependents of veterans who were killed during military service or are totally disabled, as specified; defines “dependent of a veteran” to include the spouse of a totally disabled veteran; and prohibits a dependent of a veteran from receiving these educational benefits during the time the dependent is entitled to receive specified federal educational benefits or duplicative assistance from any other government source. (Military and Veterans Code (MVC) § 890, et seq.)
5. Provides, under federal law, that veterans and certain dependents are eligible for education benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2017 (Forever GI Bill) eliminated the 15-year time limitation for veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013, allowing eligible individuals to use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits without a time limit. (Public Law 115-48, 38 United States Code (U.S. Code) § 3321, et seq.)
6. Provides, under federal law, educational benefits for the spouse and children or both currently serving members of the Armed Forces of the United States and veterans, in such instances where the service member or veteran is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, or died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability. (38 U.S. Code § 3500, et seq.)
7. Requires the CSU and each community college district (CCD), and requests the UC, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States who is a resident of California and who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Guard, as specified, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. (EC § 66025.8)
8. Authorizes the CSU and each CCD, and requests the UC to offer priority registration to foster youth, former foster youth, homeless youth, or formerly homeless youth, as defined. (EC § 66025.9)
9. Requires each CCD to offer priority registration to students eligible for disabled student programs and services, students eligible for extended opportunity programs and services, students receiving CalWORKs, and students who receive Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) as defined. (EC § 66025.91 and 66025.92)
10. Requires, beginning no later than July 1, 2023, each campus of the CSU, and
    • 1. each campus within a CCD, and requests each campus of the UC to offer priority registration to student parents. (EC § 66025.81 (a)(1))

This bill:

1. Requires, commencing with the 2028-29 academic year, each campus of the CSU and CCCs, and requests each campus of the UC that administers a priority enrollment system to grant priority for registration for enrollment to both of the following:
   1. A student who is a recipient of the CalVet College Fee Waiver
      1. Program, including specified dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, eligible family members of California National Guard members killed or disabled in the line of duty, and Medal of Honor recipients and their children.
   2. A student who is using any federal GI benefits.

Comments

Need for the bill. According to the bill author, “California has a long tradition of supporting the men and women who serve our country, as well as their families. Many veterans and their dependents rely on programs such as the CalVet College Fee Waiver and the federal GI Bill to access higher education. However, when students cannot enroll in required courses due to limited class availability, they may face unnecessary delays that prevent them from graduating on time. AB 2203 ensures that students using these earned educational benefits receive priority registration so they can enroll in the courses they need, complete their degrees efficiently, and fully utilize the benefits made available through their service.”

Who is eligible? Under existing law, students who are dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, dependents or surviving spouses of certain California National Guard members killed or disabled in the line of duty, and Medal of Honor recipients and their children qualify for a waiver of the mandatory tuition fee known as the CalVet College Fee waiver. Additionally, federal law provides education benefits through the Post-9/11 GI Bill to eligible veterans, active duty service members, and, in some cases, family members. The Forever GI Bill expanded these benefits by eliminating the 15 year time limit for using Post-9/11 GI Bill educational assistance for veterans discharged on or after January 1, 2013. This bill makes recipients of the CalVet College Fee Waiver program and recipients of any GI benefit program eligible for priority enrollment at CSU and CCCs, and requests UC to do the same.

Priority registration for enrollment. Priority enrollment decisions are made at the campus level at each segment. The process allows specific students access to classes ahead of the general student population. For example, continuing students are generally allowed to enroll in courses before new students enroll. As such, students who have priority registration status have an advantage over other students.

In addition to priority registration granted by the campuses, existing law requires the CSU and/or CCCs, and requests the UC to grant priority enrollment to the following students:

1. CSU California Promise students (CSU).
2. Current and former foster youth (CCCs, CSU, and UC).
3. Homeless youth (CCCs, CSU, and UC).
4. Any member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States, and who is a resident of California, who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Military Reserve, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for four academic years after he or she has left state or federal active duty, which he or she shall use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty (CCCs, CSU, and UC).
5. Any student who is a CalWORKs or Tribal TANF recipient (CCCs).
6. Students in the Community College Extended Opportunity Programs and Services program, and disabled students who are determined to be eligible for disabled student programs and services (CCCs).
7. Students employed as first responders (CSU and UC).

This bill adds to this list of groups for which priority registration must be granted. The Legislature may wish to consider at what point priority becomes overprescribed. The author argues that recipients of federal GI benefits have 36 months’ worth of financial support. Due to these short timelines, students can easily be derailed if they are unable to secure the necessary courses to complete their degree on time.

FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Yes Local: Yes

According to the Senate Appropriations Committee analysis, this bill would have the following fiscal impact:

• The Chancellor’s Office estimates one-time Proposition 98 General Fund costs of $140,000 for community college districts to implement a new category of priority registration. The Chancellor’s Office indicates that the number of veteran students that would qualify for the new category for priority enrollment is about 5,000.
• The costs to the UC and CSU are expected to be minor and absorbable. The UC indicates that the bill would add about 6,500 students to the existing priority registration list.

SUPPORT: (Verified 8/14/26)

California State University, Office of the Chancellor

County of Kern

County of Monterey

County of Placer

Fresno County Veterans Service Officer

San Jose-Evergreen Community College District

WestCare California, Inc.

OPPOSITION: (Verified 8/14/26)

None received

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 77-0, 5/14/26

AYES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas

NO VOTE RECORDED: Arambula, Flora, Celeste Rodriguez

Prepared by: Olgalilia Ramirez / ED. / (916) 651-4105

8/15/26 16:15:39

**** END ****

SENATE COMMITTEE ON

Senator Sabrina Cervantes, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular Session

AB 2203 (Tangipa) - Public postsecondary education: priority registration: veterans and dependents of veterans: federal GI Bill

Bill Summary:

This bill requires, commencing with the 2028-29 academic year, each campus of the California State University (CSU) and California Community Colleges (CCCs), and requests each campus of the University of California (UC) that administers a priority enrollment system, to grant priority to recipients of federal GI Bill benefits and recipients of the specified state fee waiver for military-connected students.

Fiscal Impact:

• The Chancellor’s Office estimates one-time Proposition 98 General Fund costs of $140,000 for community college districts to implement a new category of priority registration. The Chancellor’s Office indicates that the number of veteran students that would qualify for the new category for priority enrollment is about 5,000.
• The costs to the UC and CSU are expected to be minor and absorbable. The UC indicates that the bill would add about 6,500 students to the existing priority registration list.

Background:

Existing law requires the CSU and each community college district (CCD), and requests the UC, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States who is a resident of California and who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Guard, as specified, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty.

Existing law authorizes the CSU and each CCD, and requests the UC to offer priority registration to foster youth, former foster youth, homeless youth, or formerly homeless youth, as defined.

Existing law requires each CCD to offer priority registration to students eligible for disabled student programs and services, students eligible for extended opportunity programs and services, students receiving CalWORKs, and students who receive Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) as defined.

Existing law requires each campus of the CSU and each CCD, and requests each campus of the UC, to offer priority registration to student parents.

Proposed Law:

This bill requires, commencing with the 2028-29 academic year, each campus of the CSU and CCCs, and requests each campus of the UC that administers a priority enrollment system to grant priority for registration for enrollment to a student who is a recipient of the CalVet College Fee Waiver Program, including specified dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, eligible family members of California National Guard members killed or disabled in the line of duty, and Medal of Honor recipients and their children; and a student who is using any federal GI benefits.

Related Legislation:

SB 892 (Grove, 2026) removes limitations on the duration and timing for which the CSU and community college districts are required, and the UC is requested, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a student who is a current or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States. SB 892 is pending in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Staff Comments:

Existing law requires the CSU and CCCs, and requests the UC, to grant priority enrollment to several groups of students, including CSU California Promise students (CSU), current and former foster youth (CCCs, CSU, and UC), homeless youth (CCCs, CSU and UC), and any member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States. Additionally, priority enrollment decisions are made at the campus level at each segment and allows specific students to access classes ahead of the general student population, such as continuing students. This bill adds to the list of groups specified in statute for which priority registration must be granted.

-- END --

SENATE COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS

Senator Bob Archuleta, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular

Bill No: AB 2203 Hearing Date: 6/22/26

Subject: Public postsecondary education: priority registration: veterans and dependents of veterans: federal GI Bill

DESCRIPTION

Summary:

Requires the California State University and each community college district, and requests the University of California, beginning with the 2028–29 academic year, to grant priority registration to students who receive the CalVet College Fee Waiver and students who are using any federal GI Bill benefits, if the campus administers a priority enrollment system.

Existing law:

1. Establishes the University of California, the California State University, and the California Community Colleges as the three public segments of higher education in California. (Education Code § 66010)
2. Prohibits UC, CSU, and CCC campuses from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to specified military-connected students who qualify for a CalVet-administered fee waiver, including a child of a veteran who has a service-connected disability, was killed in service, or died of a service-connected disability; a dependent or unremarried surviving spouse of a California National Guard member who was killed, died of a disability, or became permanently disabled in the line of duty while in active state service; an undergraduate student who is a Medal of Honor recipient; and an undergraduate student who is the child of a Medal of Honor recipient and is no more than 27 years of age. (Education Code § 66025.3(a); Military and Veterans Code § 890 et seq.)
3. Requires CSU and each community college district, and requests UC, to grant priority registration to a member or former member of the United States Armed Forces who is a California resident and who received an honorable discharge, general discharge, or other than honorable discharge, and to members or former members of the State Guard, for any academic term attended within four academic years after leaving state or federal active duty, to be used within 15 years after leaving active duty. (Education Code § 66025.8)
4. Authorizes or requires priority registration for several other student groups, including foster youth, former foster youth, homeless youth, formerly homeless youth, student parents, students employed as first responders, certain CalWORKs and Tribal TANF recipients, disabled students, and students in extended opportunity programs and services. (Education Code §§ 66025.9, 66025.81, 66025.82, 66025.91, 66025.92)
5. Establishes the California Military Department GI Bill Award Program for active members of the California National Guard, State Guard, or Naval Militia to use toward obtaining a certificate, degree, or diploma, subject to specified service and program requirements. (Education Code §§ 69999.12, 69999.16)
6. Establishes educational benefits for dependents of veterans who were killed during military service or are totally disabled, and limits duplicative receipt of certain federal or government educational benefits. (Military and Veterans Code §§ 890–899, including §§ 896.1, 896.4)

Federal law:

Provides, under federal law, education benefits through the Post-9/11 GI Bill for eligible veterans, service members, and certain dependents. The Forever GI Bill eliminated the 15-year time limit for veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013. (38 U.S.C. Chapter 33, including §§ 3311, 3319, 3321; Public Law 115-48)

This bill:

1. Requires, beginning with the 2028–29 academic year, CSU and each community college district to grant priority registration for enrollment to both of the following students at any campus that administers a priority enrollment system:
   • A student who receives a fee waiver under the CalVet College Fee Waiver provisions; and
   • A student who is using any federal GI Bill benefits.
2. Requests UC to grant the same priority registration at each UC campus that administers a priority enrollment system.

BACKGROUND

California provides several education benefits for veterans, service members, and military-connected students. The CalVet College Fee Waiver waives mandatory systemwide tuition and fees at UC, CSU, and CCC campuses for specified dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, eligible dependents and surviving spouses of certain California National Guard members, Medal of Honor recipients, and eligible children of Medal of Honor recipients. The waiver applies to tuition and mandatory systemwide fees, but does not cover other costs of attendance such as books, parking, housing, meals, or campus-based fees. Eligibility may also be subject to annual application requirements, age limits, income limits, or other plan-specific conditions.

Federal GI Bill benefits provide another major source of educational assistance for eligible service members, veterans, and, in some cases, their family members. The Post-9/11 GI Bill generally provides up to 36 months of education benefits, with benefit levels based on length of service. Depending on eligibility, these benefits may help cover tuition, fees, housing, books, and other education-related costs. Although the Forever GI Bill removed the 15-year use limitation for certain veterans discharged on or after January 1, 2013, some students may still be subject to eligibility windows, age limits, transfer rules, or defined benefit periods.

For students using time-limited or eligibility-based education benefits, access to required coursework can significantly affect academic progress. When a student is unable to enroll in needed classes, they may be delayed in completing a degree, certificate, or transfer pathway. In some cases, students may continue using limited benefits while making little or no progress toward completion.

Priority registration allows certain students to enroll in classes before the general student population. Current law provides priority registration to qualifying veterans for a limited period after leaving active duty. However, priority registration eligibility does not extend uniformly to all students who receive military-connected education benefits, including certain dependents and surviving family members.

COMMENT

According to the Author: “California has a long tradition of supporting the men and women who serve our country, as well as their families. Many veterans and their dependents rely on programs such as the CalVet College Fee Waiver and the federal GI Bill to access higher education. However, when students cannot enroll in required courses due to limited class availability, they may face unnecessary delays that prevent them from graduating on time. AB 2203 ensures that students using these earned educational benefits receive priority registration so they can enroll in the courses they need, complete their degrees efficiently, and fully utilize the benefits made available through their service.”

This bill is intended to help veterans, service members, and military-connected dependents use existing education benefits more effectively by connecting those benefits with course access. While the CalVet College Fee Waiver and federal GI Bill benefits can reduce or cover education costs, they do not guarantee that a student will be able to enroll in the required courses needed to complete a degree, certificate, or transfer pathway on time.

Students who are shut out of impacted or high-demand courses may be forced to delay graduation, remain enrolled longer than expected, or use limited GI Bill entitlement without making meaningful academic progress. This can reduce the practical value of these benefits, particularly for students whose eligibility is tied to a defined period, age limit, or number of months of entitlement.

Current law provides priority registration to certain current and former members of the Armed Forces and State Guard, but that priority is limited by time after leaving active duty. AB 2203 creates a separate priority registration category for students receiving the CalVet College Fee Waiver or using federal GI Bill benefits. This would extend priority registration to additional military-connected students, including certain dependents and surviving family members who may not qualify under the existing veteran priority registration statute.

The bill does not create a new financial aid program or expand the underlying eligibility for the CalVet College Fee Waiver or federal GI Bill benefits. Instead, it seeks to make those existing benefits more usable by helping eligible students enroll in the courses they need before their benefits are exhausted or their eligibility period ends.

Expanding priority registration would add another category of students to an enrollment priority system that already serves multiple populations. The students covered by this bill may also be subject to time-sensitive education benefits tied to military service, disability, death, or other qualifying circumstances. Providing priority registration could help those students access required courses and make timely progress toward completing their education. The bill delays implementation until the 2028–29 academic year, allowing campuses time to update systems, identify eligible students, and incorporate the new priority category into existing registration processes.

Prior legislation:

SB 892 (Grove, 2026) removes, beginning July 1, 2027, the existing four-academic-year and 15-year limits on priority registration for qualifying veterans and State Guard members at the California Community Colleges and CSU, and requests UC to do the same.

AB 3017 (Brough, 2020) Would have expanded veteran priority registration by allowing qualifying service members and former service members to receive priority registration while eligible for specified federal education benefits, including GI Bill programs. The bill was referred to the Assembly Higher Education Committee but was not set for hearing.

AB 2133 (Blumenfield, 2012) The Combat to College Act of 2012, allowed qualifying former members of the Armed Forces to use their four academic years of priority registration within 15 years of leaving active duty.

POSITIONS

Sponsor: Author.

Support: California Association of County Veterans Service Officers

California State University, Office of the Chancellor

Clovis Veterans Memorial District

County of Kern

County of Placer

Fresno County Veterans Service Officer

Fresno Federal American Legion Auxiliary Unit 509

San Jose-Evergreen Community College District

WestCare California, Inc.

Oppose: None

-- END --

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Senator Sasha Renée Pérez, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular

Bill No: Hearing Date: June 10, 2026

Subject: .

NOTE: This bill has been referred to the Committees on Education and Military and Veterans Affairs. A “do pass” motion should include referral to the Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs.

SUMMARY

This bill requires, commencing with the 2028-29 academic year, each campus of the California State University (CSU) and California Community Colleges (CCCs), and requests each campus of the University of California (UC) that administers a priority enrollment system, to grant priority to recipients of federal GI Bill benefits and recipients of the specified state fee waiver for military-connected students.

BACKGROUND

Existing law:

1. Prohibits UC, CSU, and CCC from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to specified students who apply for a California Department of Veterans Affairs fee waiver, as specified, including:
   1. A child of any veteran of the United States military who has a service-connected disability, has been killed in service, or has died of a service-connected disability, as specified;
   2. A dependent, or a surviving spouse who has not remarried, of any member of the California National Guard who, in the line of duty, and while in the active service of the state, was killed, died of a disability resulting from an event that occurred while in the active service of the state, or is permanently disabled as a result of an event that occurred while in the active service of the state; as specified;
   3. An undergraduate student who is a recipient of a Medal of Honor, commonly known as a Congressional Medal of Honor, or an undergraduate student who is a child of a recipient of a Medal of Honor and who is no more than 27 years old, as specified; and,
   4. Specifies that it shall determine the eligibility of any applicant for a fee waiver. (Education Code (EC) § 66025.3, et seq.)
2. Requires the CSU and requests the UC to grant priority registration for enrollment to students employed as first responders, as defined. (EC § 66025.82)
3. Establishes the California Military Department GI Bill Award Program for persons who are active members of the California National Guard, the State Guard, or the Naval Militia to use toward obtaining a certificate, degree, or diploma. In order to qualify for an award, current law requires that the member agree to serve at least two years upon completion of the last academic period that the person uses educational assistance under the program and is required to complete their course of study within 10 years of initial acceptance into the program. Existing law also establishes the eligibility criteria for an award and specifies the qualifying institutions for which the award may be used. (EC § 69999.16)
4. Establishes various educational benefits for dependents of veterans who were killed during military service or are totally disabled, as specified; defines “dependent of a veteran” to include the spouse of a totally disabled veteran; and prohibits a dependent of a veteran from receiving these educational benefits during the time the dependent is entitled to receive specified federal educational benefits or duplicative assistance from any other government source. (Military and Veterans Code (MVC) § 890, et seq.)
5. Provides, under federal law, that veterans and certain dependents are eligible for education benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2017 (Forever GI Bill) eliminated the 15-year time limitation for veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013, allowing eligible individuals to use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits without a time limit. (Public Law 115-48, 38 United States Code (U.S. Code) § 3321, et seq.)
6. Provides, under federal law, educational benefits for the spouse and children or both currently serving members of the Armed Forces of the United States and veterans, in such instances where the service member or veteran is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, or died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability. (38 U.S. Code § 3500, et seq.)
7. Requires the CSU and each community college district (CCD), and requests the UC, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States who is a resident of California and who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Guard, as specified, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. (EC § 66025.8)
8. Authorizes the CSU and each CCD, and requests the UC to offer priority registration to foster youth, former foster youth, homeless youth, or formerly homeless youth, as defined. (EC § 66025.9)
9. Requires each CCD to offer priority registration to students eligible for disabled student programs and services, students eligible for extended opportunity programs and services, students receiving CalWORKs, and students who receive Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) as defined. (EC § 66025.91 and 66025.92)
10. Requires, beginning no later than July 1, 2023, each campus of the CSU, and

each campus within a CCD, and requests each campus of the UC to offer priority registration to student parents. (EC § 66025.81 (a)(1))

ANALYSIS

1. This bill requires, commencing with the 2028-29 academic year, each campus of the CSU and CCCs, and requests each campus of the UC that administers a priority enrollment system to grant priority for registration for enrollment to both of the following:
   1. A student who is a recipient of the CalVet College Fee Waiver Program,

including specified dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, eligible family members of California National Guard members killed or disabled in the line of duty, and Medal of Honor recipients and their children.

• 1. A student who is using any federal GI benefits.

STAFF COMMENTS

1. Need for the bill. According to the bill author, “California has a long tradition of supporting the men and women who serve our country, as well as their families. Many veterans and their dependents rely on programs such as the CalVet College Fee Waiver and the federal GI Bill to access higher education. However, when students cannot enroll in required courses due to limited class availability, they may face unnecessary delays that prevent them from graduating on time. AB 2203 ensures that students using these earned educational benefits receive priority registration so they can enroll in the courses they need, complete their degrees efficiently, and fully utilize the benefits made available through their service.”
2. Who is eligible? Under existing law, students who are dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, dependents or surviving spouses of certain California National Guard members killed or disabled in the line of duty, and Medal of Honor recipients and their children qualify for a waiver of the mandatory tuition fee known as the CalVet College Fee waiver. Additionally, federal law provides education benefits through the Post-9/11 GI Bill to eligible veterans, active duty service members, and, in some cases, family members. The Forever GI Bill expanded these benefits by eliminating the 15 year time limit for using Post-9/11 GI Bill educational assistance for veterans discharged on or after January 1, 2013. This bill makes recipients of the CalVet College Fee Waiver program and recipients of any GI benefit program eligible for priority enrollment at CSU and CCCs, and requests UC to do the same.
3. Priority registration for enrollment. Priority enrollment decisions are made at the campus level at each segment. The process allows specific students access to classes ahead of the general student population. For example, continuing students are generally allowed to enroll in courses before new students enroll. As such, students who have priority registration status have an advantage over other students.

In addition to priority registration granted by the campuses, existing law requires the CSU and/or CCCs, and requests the UC to grant priority enrollment to the following students:

1. CSU California Promise students (CSU).
2. Current and former foster youth (CCCs, CSU, and UC).
3. Homeless youth (CCCs, CSU and UC).
4. Any member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States,

and who is a resident of California, who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Military Reserve, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for four academic years after he or she has left state or federal active duty, which he or she shall use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty (CCCs, CSU, and UC).

1. Any student who is a CalWORKs or Tribal TANF recipient (CCCs).
2. Students in the Community College Extended Opportunity Programs and Services program, and disabled students who are determined to be eligible for disabled student programs and services (CCCs).
3. Students employed as first responders (CSU and UC).

This bill adds to this list of groups for which priority registration must be granted.

The Committee may wish to consider at what point priority becomes overprescribed.

The author argues that recipients of federal GI benefits have 36 months worth of financial support. Due to these short times lines, students can easily be derailed if they are unable to secure the necessary courses to complete their degree on time.

1. Fiscal impact. According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee analysis, this bill would have the following fiscal impact:

• One-time Proposition 98 General Fund costs of approximately $140,000 for the CCCs, collectively statewide, to implement a new category of priority registration. According to the CCC Chancellor’s Office, there are approximately 5,000 veteran students who would meet eligibility criteria for priority enrollment under this bill.
• Minor and absorbable costs to the campuses of the UC and the campuses of the CSU. Both segments report a significant reduction in potential cost exposure to their systems due to the delayed implementation of the bill’s requirements for the 2028-29 academic year.
• The UC Office of the President notes the bill would add about 6,500 eligible students to the existing priority registration student population at the UC, currently comprised of students with special needs, student parents, and foster youth.

1. Related legislation.

SB 892 (Grove, 2026), commencing July 1, 2027, removes limitations on the duration and timing for which the CSU and CCDs are required, and the UC is requested to grant priority registration for enrollment to a student who is a current or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States. SB 892 was heard by this Committee on March 18, 2026, and was unanimously approved. SB 892 has been referred to the Assembly Committees on Higher Education and Military and Veterans Affairs.

SUPPORT

California State University, Office of the Chancellor

County of Kern

County of Placer

Fresno County Veterans Service Officer

WestCare California, Inc.

OPPOSITION

None received

-- END --

Date of Hearing: May 6, 2026

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

Buffy Wicks, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:AB 2203

Author:(Tangipa) – As Introduced Ver:February 19, 2026

Urgency: No State Mandated Local Program: Yes Reimbursable: Yes

SUMMARY:

This bill requires, beginning with the 2028-29 academic year, each campus of the California State University (CSU) and the California Community Colleges (CCCs), and requests each campus of the University of California (UC), that administers a priority enrollment system to provide priority enrollment to a student who receives a California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) fee waiver or who is using any federal GI Bill benefits.

FISCAL EFFECT:

1. One-time Proposition 98 General Fund costs of approximately $140,000 for the CCCs, collectively statewide, to implement a new category of priority registration. According to the CCC Chancellor’s Office, there are approximately 5,000 veteran students who would meet eligibility criteria for priority enrollment under this bill.
2. Minor and absorbable costs to the campuses of the UC and the campuses of the CSU. Both segments report a significant reduction in potential cost exposure to their systems due to the delayed implementation of the bill’s requirements to the 2028-29 academic year.

The UC Office of the President notes the bill would add about 6,500 eligible students to the existing priority registration student population at the UC, currently comprised of students with special needs, student parents, and foster youth.

COMMENTS:

1. Purpose. According to the author:

California has a long tradition of supporting the men and women who serve our country, as well as their families. Many veterans and their dependents rely on programs such as the CalVet College Fee Waiver and the federal GI Bill to access higher education. However, when students cannot enroll in required courses due to limited class availability, they may face unnecessary delays that prevent them from graduating on time. AB 2203 ensures that students using these earned educational benefits receive priority registration so they can enroll in the courses they need, complete their degrees efficiently, and fully utilize the benefits made available through their service.

1. Background. The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) administers the College Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents (CalVet fee waiver), which waives mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at any CCC, CSU, or UC campus. This program does not cover the expense of books, parking, or room and board. The waiver defines an eligible recipient as the natural or adopted child or stepchild of a veteran with a service-connected disability or who died in service, the unmarried surviving spouse of a veteran, the spouse of a permanently disabled veteran, or a Medal of Honor recipient and their children. Similarly, the federal GI bill provides education benefits, such as coverage for in-state rates of tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and a book stipend to military veterans and, in some cases, their dependents.

Current law requires the CSU and CCC, and requests the UC, to provide students who were members of the United States Armed Forces with priority enrollment, up to 15 years after leaving state or federal active duty. This bill would expand eligibility for military service-related priority enrollment by requiring it for CalVet fee waiver and federal GI Bill recipients.

1. Related Legislation. SB 892 (Grove), of the current legislative session, removes the post-military service time limit of 15 years for priority enrollment eligibility for former members of the United States Armed Forces beginning July 1, 2027.

Analysis Prepared by: Aaron Heredia / APPR. / (916) 319-2081

Date of Hearing: April 14, 2026

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS

Pilar Schiavo, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:AB 2203 (

Author:Tangipa) – As Introduced Ver:February 19, 2026

SUBJECT: Public postsecondary education: priority registration: veterans and dependents of veterans: federal GI Bill.

SUMMARY: Requires, the California State University (CSU) community college district (CCD), and would request the University of California (UC), commencing with the 2028–29 academic year, to grant priority registration for enrollment to students who receives a fee waiver, as specified, and students who are using any federal GI Bill benefits. Specifically, this bill:

1. Requires, commencing with the 2028–29 academic year, the CSU and each CCD, and requests the UC to, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, grant priority in that system for registration for enrollment to both of the following:
   1. A student who is a recipient of the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) fee wavier, as specified; and,
   2. A student who is using any federal GI Bill benefits.

EXISTING STATE LAW:

1. Establishes the California Community Colleges (CCC), the CSU, and the UC as the three segments of public institutions of higher education in the state. (Education Code (EDC) § 66010)
2. Prohibits UC, CSU, and CCC from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to specified students who apply for a California Department of Veterans Affairs fee wavier, as specified, including:
   1. A child of any veteran of the United States military who has a service-connected disability, has been killed in service, or has died of a service-connected disability, as specified;
   2. A dependent, or a surviving spouse who has not remarried, of any member of the California National Guard who, in the line of duty, and while in the active service of the state, was killed, died of a disability resulting from an event that occurred while in the active service of the state, or is permanently disabled as a result of an event that occurred while in the active service of the state; as specified;
   3. An undergraduate student who is a recipient of a Medal of Honor, commonly known as a Congressional Medal of Honor, or an undergraduate student who is a child of a recipient of a Medal of Honor and who is no more than 27 years old, as specified; and,
   4. Specifies that shall determine the eligibility of any applicant for a fee waiver (EDC § 66025.3, et seq.)
3. Requires the CSU and each community college district, and requests the UC, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a member or former member of the US Armed Forces who is a resident of California and who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Guard, as specified, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. (EDC § 66025.8)
4. Authorizes the CSU and each CCD, and requests the UC to offer priority registration to foster youth, former foster youth, homeless youth, or formerly homeless youth, as defined. (EDC § 66025.9)
5. Requires each CCD to offer priority registration to students eligible for disabled student programs and services, students eligible for extended opportunity programs and services, students receiving CalWORKS, and students who receive Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) as defined. (EDC §§ 66025.91 and 66025.92)
6. Requires each campus of the CSU, and each campus within a CCD, and requests each campus of the UC to offer priority registration to student parents. (EDC § 66025.81)
7. Requires CCDs and the CSU and requests the UC to grant priority registration to students employed as first responders. (EDC § 66025.82)
8. Prohibits UC, CSU, and CCC from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to the surviving spouse or child of a deceased law enforcement or fire suppression personnel, as specified, and the surviving dependent of any California resident killed in the September 11, 2001 attack, as specified. The fee waivers are limited to undergraduate students who meet the specified financial need requirements. (EDC §§ 68120-68121)
9. Provides that statutes related to UC (and most other aspects of the governance and operation of UC) are applicable only to the extent that the Regents of UC make such provisions applicable. (EDC §§ 67400 and 68134)
10. Establishes the California Military Department GI Bill Award Program for persons who are active members of the California National Guard, the State Guard, or the Naval Militia to use toward obtaining a certificate, degree, or diploma. In order to qualify for an award, current law requires that the member agree to serve at least two years upon completion of the last academic period that the person uses educational assistance under the program and is required to complete their course of study within 10 years of initial acceptance into the program. Existing law also establishes the eligibility criteria for an award and specifies the qualifying institutions for which the award may be used. (EDC § 69999.16)
11. Establishes various educational benefits for dependents of veterans who were killed during military service or are totally disabled, as specified; defines “dependent of a veteran” to include the spouse of a totally disabled veteran; and prohibits a dependent of a veteran from receiving these educational benefits during the time the dependent is entitled to receive specified federal educational benefits or duplicative assistance from any other government source. (Military and Veterans Code § 890, et seq.)

EXISTING FEDERAL LAW:

1. Provides that veterans and certain dependents are eligible for education benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2017 (Forever GI Bill) eliminated the 15-year time limitation for veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013 allowing eligible individuals to use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits without a time limit. (Public Law 115-48, 38 U.S.Code § 3321, et seq.)
2. Provides educational benefits for the spouse and children or both currently serving members of the Armed Forces of the United States and veterans, in such instances where the service member or veteran is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, or died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability. (38 U.S. Code § 3500, et seq.)

FISCAL EFFECT: This bill has not been analyzed by a fiscal committee.

COMMENTS:

1. PURPOSE OF THIS BILL. According to the author, “California has a long tradition of supporting the men and women who serve our country, as well as their families. Many veterans and their dependents rely on programs such as the CalVet College Fee Waiver and the federal GI Bill to access higher education. However, when students cannot enroll in required courses due to limited class availability, they may face unnecessary delays that prevent them from graduating on time. AB 2203 ensures that students using these earned educational benefits receive priority registration so they can enroll in the courses they need, complete their degrees efficiently, and fully utilize the benefits made available through their service.”
2. BACKGROUND.
   1. College Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents. CalVet administers the College Fee Wavier for Veteran Dependents, which waives mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at any CCC, CSU, or UC campus. This program does not cover the expenses of books, parking or room and board. There are four plans under which dependents of Veterans may be eligible, Plans A, B C, and D. Plan A is restricted to:
      1. The unmarried child of a veteran who is totally service-connected disabled, or whose death was officially rated as service-connected is eligible. The child must be over 14 years old and under 27 years old to be eligible. If the child is a veteran, then the age limit is extended to 30 years old;
      2. The spouse of a wartime veteran who is totally service-connected disabled is eligible. There are no age limit restrictions;
      3. The unmarried surviving spouse of a wartime veteran whose death has been rated as service-connected is eligible. There are no age limit restrictions; and,
      4. Any dependent of any Veteran who has been declared missing in action, captured in the line of duty by hostile forces, or forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government or power is eligible.
         

The veteran must have served at least one day of active duty during a period of war as declared by the U.S. Congress, or during any time in which the veteran was awarded a campaign or expeditionary medal. Concurrent receipt of benefits under Plan A and VA Chapter 35 benefits is prohibited.

• 1. Plan B covers the child of a veteran who has a service-connected disability, or had a service-connected disability at the time of death, or died of service-related causes is eligible. The child's annual income, which includes the child's adjusted gross income, plus the value of support provided by a parent, may not exceed the annual income limit. The current academic year entitlement is based upon the previous calendar year's annual income.
     
     Under Plan B, wartime service is not required and there are no specific age requirements. Children are the only dependents eligible under this plan. There is no prohibition against receiving concurrent VA Chapter 35 benefits.
  2. Plan C covers any dependent of any member of the California National Guard, who in the line of duty while on active service to the state, was killed, died of a disability resulting from an event that occurred while in active service to the state, or is permanently disabled as a result of an event that occurred while in the service to the state is eligible. Surviving spouses who have not remarried are also eligible. "Active service to the state," for the purpose of this benefit, means a member of the California National Guard activated pursuant to Section 146 of the MVC.
  3. Plan D covers Medal of Honor recipients and children of Medal of Honor recipients under the age of 27 may qualify. Benefits under Plan D are limited to undergraduate studies only, and applicants are subject to both income and age restrictions. There is no prohibition against receiving concurrent VA Chapter 35 benefits.
  4. Federal GI Bill history. Education benefits for veterans in the United States began taking shape in the early 20th century. Recognizing that military service often interrupted educational opportunities, Congress passed the Rehabilitation Act of 1919, which provided financial assistance to World War I veterans with service-related disabilities. During World War II, additional support emerged through the 1940 Selective Training and Service Act, which ensured job reinstatement and offered training and rehabilitation services for disabled veterans.
     
     A major turning point came in 1944 with two key laws. The Veterans Act granted veterans preference in federal hiring, but the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act—better known as the GI Bill—had the most lasting impact. It provided unemployment benefits, educational assistance, and low-interest loans for homes, farms, and businesses. This legislation became the foundation for all future veterans’ benefits programs, with later acts expanding access to education and training, including provisions for spouses and dependents of disabled or deceased veterans.
     
     In the decades that followed, veterans’ education programs continued to evolve. Laws in 1966 and 1976 expanded benefits and introduced new structures, including requiring service members to contribute financially. In 1984, the Montgomery GI Bill was established, requiring active-duty personnel to contribute part of their pay during their first year of service. Made permanent in 1987, this program aimed to support veterans’ transition to civilian life while also encouraging military recruitment and retention, offering additional incentives such as supplemental benefits for specialized skills.
  5. Post 9/11 GI Bill and Forever GI Bill. The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides education benefits to individuals who have served at least 90 days of active duty on or after September 10, 2001, with coverage for training pursued since August 1, 2009. These benefits are not limited to veterans alone—they are also available to active service members and, in many cases, can be extended to their families, making them a significant resource for long-term educational and career advancement. Eligibility for full or partial benefits depends on length of service, with those serving less than 36 months receiving a percentage of the total benefit.
     
     The Forever GI Bill, as noted in Existing Law, builds on this foundation by enhancing existing education programs rather than creating a new one. It was designed to address gaps in the original Post-9/11 GI Bill and improve access and flexibility for service members, veterans, and their families. Specifically, the Forever GI Bill eliminated the 15-year time limitation for veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013 allowing eligible individuals to use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits without a time limit.
  6. Priority registration. Priority registration decisions are made at the campus level at each segment. The process allows specific students access to classes ahead of the general student population. For example, continuing students generally are allowed to enroll in courses before new students enroll. As such, students who have priority registration status have an advantage over other students.
     
     In addition to priority registration granted by the campuses, existing law requires the CSU and/or CCCs, and requests the UC to grant priority enrollment to the following students:
     1. CSU California Promise students (CSU);
     2. Current and former foster youth (CSU, CCCs and UC);
     3. Homeless youth (CSU, CCCs and UC);
     4. A member or former member of the US Armed Forces who is a resident of California and who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Guard, as specified, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for four academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty;
     5. Any student who is a CalWORKs or Tribal TANF recipient (CCCs); and,
     6. Students in the Community College Extended Opportunity Programs and Services program, and disabled students who are determined to be eligible for disabled student programs and services (CCCs).

1. SUPPORT. The Clovis Veterans Memorial District writes in strong support that the California Veterans Fee Waiver supports dependents of disabled veterans, those killed in service, or those who died from duty related causes. These students often face unique challenges, including financial constraints and family obligations linked to their loved ones' sacrifices. Despite the importance of this benefit, many eligible students encounter obstacles that delay their education, such as limited course availability and registration. Priority registration offers a straightforward solution, allowing Fee Waiver recipients to enroll in necessary courses efficiently. WestCare California, also in support, states that this bill aligns educational access with the spirit of the Fee Waiver. By enabling priority registration, this bill helps prevent bottlenecks and supports timely graduation, honoring the sacrifices of California’s veteran families.
2. DOUBLE REFERRAL. This bill is double referred, it passed the Assembly Committee on Higher Education on consent by a vote of 10-0 on April 7, 2026.
3. RELATED LEGISLATION. SB 892 (Grove) removes, commencing July 1, 2027, limitations on the duration and timing for which the CSU and CCDs are required, and the UC is requested, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a current and former member of the US Armed Forces.
4. PREVIOUS LEGISLATION.
   1. AB 3017 (Medina) of 2020 would have required, commencing with the 2028–29 academic year, the CSU and each CCD, and requests the UC to, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, grant priority in that system for registration for enrollment to any member or former member of the US Armed Forces, and who is a resident of California, who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Military Reserve, Guard, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions during any period for which the student is eligible for education benefits under the GI Bill–Active Duty program, the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program, or the Post-9/11 GI Bill program. AB 317 was referred to the Assembly Higher Education Committee, but was never set for hearing.
   2. AB 2133 (Cook) Chapter 400, Statutes of 2012, allows a former member of the Armed Forces of the United States to use his or her four years of priority registration enrollment at the CSU and CCC within 15 years of leaving active duty.

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

Clovis Veterans Memorial District
Fresno Federal American Legion Auxiliary Unit 509
WestCare California, INC.

Opposition

None on file.

Analysis Prepared by: Patty Patten / M. & V.A. / (916) 319-3550

Date of Hearing: April 7, 2026

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION

Mike Fong, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:AB 2203 (

Author:Tangipa) – As Introduced Ver:February 19, 2026

[Note: This bill is double referred to the Assembly Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and will be heard by that Committee as it relates to issues under its jurisdiction.]

SUBJECT: Public postsecondary education: priority registration: veterans and dependents of veterans: federal GI Bill

SUMMARY: Requires, commencing with the 2028–29 academic year, the California State University (CSU) and each community college district (CCD), and would request the University of California (UC), to grant priority registration for enrollment to students who receives a fee waiver, as specified, and students who are using any federal GI Bill benefits. Specifically, this bill:

1. Requires, commencing with the 2028–29 academic year, the CSU and each CCD, and the UC is requested to, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, grant priority in that system for registration for enrollment to both of the following:
   1. A student who is a recipient of the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) fee wavier, as specified; and,
   2. A student who is using any federal GI Bill benefits.

EXISTING LAW:

1. Establishes the California Community Colleges (CCC), the CSU, and the UC as the 3 segments of public institutions of higher education in the state. (Education Code (EDC) Section 66010)
2. Prohibits UC, CSU, and CCC from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to specified students who apply for a California Department of Veterans Affairs fee wavier, as specified, including:
   1. A child of any veteran of the United States military who has a service-connected disability, has been killed in service, or has died of a service-connected disability, as specified;
   2. A dependent, or a surviving spouse who has not remarried, of any member of the California National Guard who, in the line of duty, and while in the active service of the state, was killed, died of a disability resulting from an event that occurred while in the active service of the state, or is permanently disabled as a result of an event that occurred while in the active service of the state; as specified;
   3. An undergraduate student who is a recipient of a Medal of Honor, commonly known as a Congressional Medal of Honor, or an undergraduate student who is a child of a recipient of a Medal of Honor and who is no more than 27 years old, as specified; and,
   4. Specifies that shall determine the eligibility of any applicant for a fee waiver (EDC Section 66025.3, et seq.)
3. Requires the CSU and each community college district, and requests the UC, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a member or former member of the US Armed Forces who is a resident of California and who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Guard, as specified, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. (EDC Section 66025.8)
4. Authorizes the CSU and each CCD, and requests the UC to offer priority registration to foster youth, former foster youth, homeless youth, or formerly homeless youth, as defined. (EDC Section 66025.9)
5. Requires each CCD to offer priority registration to students eligible for disabled student programs and services, students eligible for extended opportunity programs and services, students receiving CalWORKS, and students who receive Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) as defined. (EDC Section 66025.91 and 66025.92)
6. Requires each campus of the CSU, and each campus within a CCD, and requests each campus of the UC to offer priority registration to student parents. (EDC Sectioin 66025.81)
7. Requires CCDs and the CSU and requests the UC to grant priority registration to students employed as first responders. (EDC § 66025.82)
8. Prohibits UC, CSU, and CCC from charging mandatory systemwide tuition or fees to the surviving spouse or child of a deceased law enforcement or fire suppression personnel, as specified, and the surviving dependent of any California resident killed in the September 11, 2001 attack, as specified. The fee waivers are limited to undergraduate students who meet the specified financial need requirements. (EDC Sections 68120-68121)
9. Provides that statutes related to UC (and most other aspects of the governance and operation of UC) are applicable only to the extent that the Regents of UC make such provisions applicable. (EDC Sections 67400 and 68134)
10. Establishes the California Military Department GI Bill Award Program for persons who are active members of the California National Guard, the State Guard, or the Naval Militia to use toward obtaining a certificate, degree, or diploma. In order to qualify for an award, current law requires that the member agree to serve at least two years upon completion of the last academic period that the person uses educational assistance under the program and is required to complete their course of study within 10 years of initial acceptance into the program. Existing law also establishes the eligibility criteria for an award and specifies the qualifying institutions for which the award may be used. (EDC Section 69999.16)
11. Establishes various educational benefits for dependents of veterans who were killed during military service or are totally disabled, as specified; defines “dependent of a veteran” to include the spouse of a totally disabled veteran; and prohibits a dependent of a veteran from receiving these educational benefits during the time the dependent is entitled to receive specified federal educational benefits or duplicative assistance from any other government source. (Military and Veterans Code (MVC) § 890, et seq.)
12. Provides, under federal law, that veterans and certain dependents are eligible for education benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2017 (Forever GI Bill) eliminated the 15-year time limitation for veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013 allowing eligible individuals to use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits without a time limit. (Public Law 115-48, 38 U.S.C Section 3321, et seq.)
13. Provides, under federal law, educational benefits for the spouse and children or both currently serving members of the Armed Forces of the United States and veterans, in such instances where the service member or veteran is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, or died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability. (38 U.S. Code Section 3500, et seq.)

FISCAL EFFECT: Unknown.

COMMENTS: Purpose. According to the author, “California has a long tradition of supporting the men and women who serve our country, as well as their families. Many veterans and their dependents rely on programs such as the CalVet College Fee Waiver and the federal GI Bill to access higher education. However, when students cannot enroll in required courses due to limited class availability, they may face unnecessary delays that prevent them from graduating on time. AB 2203 ensures that students using these earned educational benefits receive priority registration so they can enroll in the courses they need, complete their degrees efficiently, and fully utilize the benefits made available through their service.”

College Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents. CalVet administers the College Fee Wavier for Veteran Dependents, which waives mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at any CCC, CSU, or UC campus. This program does not cover the expense of books, parking or room and board.

There are four plans under which dependents of Veterans may be eligible, Plans A, B C, and D.

Plan A is restricted to:

1. The unmarried child of a veteran who is totally service-connected disabled, or whose death was officially rated as service-connected is eligible. The child must be over 14 years old and under 27 years old to be eligible. If the child is a veteran, then the age limit is extended to 30 years old.
2. The spouse of a wartime veteran who is totally service-connected disabled is eligible. There are no age limit restrictions.
3. The unmarried surviving spouse of a wartime veteran whose death has been rated as service- connected is eligible. There are no age limit restrictions.
4. Any dependent of any Veteran who has been declared missing in action, captured in the line of duty by hostile forces, or forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government or power is eligible.

The veteran must have served at least one day of active duty during a period of war as declared

by the U.S. Congress, or during any time in which the veteran was awarded a campaign or

expeditionary medal. Concurrent receipt of benefits under Plan A and VA Chapter 35 benefits is

prohibited.

Plan B covers the child of a veteran who has a service-connected disability, or had a service-

connected disability at the time of death, or died of service-related causes is eligible. The child's

annual income, which includes the child's adjusted gross income, plus the value of support

provided by a parent, may not exceed the annual income limit. The current academic year

entitlement is based upon the previous calendar year's annual income.

Under Plan B, wartime service is not required and there are no specific age requirements.

Children are the only dependents eligible under this plan. There is no prohibition against receiving concurrent VA Chapter 35 benefits.

Plan C covers any dependent of any member of the California National Guard, who in the line of

duty while on active service to the state, was killed, died of a disability resulting from an event

that occurred while in active service to the state, or is permanently disabled as a result of an

event that occurred while in the service to the state is eligible. Surviving spouses who have not

remarried are also eligible. "Active service to the state," for the purpose of this benefit, means a

member of the California National Guard activated pursuant to Section 146 of the MVC.

Plan D covers Medal of Honor recipients and children of Medal of Honor recipients under the

age of 27 may qualify. Benefits under Plan D are limited to undergraduate studies only, and

applicants are subject to both income and age restrictions. There is no prohibition against

receiving concurrent VA Chapter 35 benefits.

Federal GI Bill history. Education benefits for veterans in the United States began taking shape in the early 20^th century. Recognizing that military service often interrupted educational opportunities, Congress passed the Rehabilitation Act of 1919, which provided financial assistance to World War I veterans with service-related disabilities. During World War II, additional support emerged through the 1940 Selective Training and Service Act, which ensured job reinstatement and offered training and rehabilitation services for disabled veterans.

A major turning point came in 1944 with two key laws. The Veterans Act granted veterans preference in federal hiring, but the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act—better known as the GI Bill—had the most lasting impact. It provided unemployment benefits, educational assistance, and low-interest loans for homes, farms, and businesses. This legislation became the foundation for all future veterans’ benefits programs, with later acts expanding access to education and training, including provisions for spouses and dependents of disabled or deceased veterans.

In the decades that followed, veterans’ education programs continued to evolve. Laws in 1966 and 1976 expanded benefits and introduced new structures, including requiring service members to contribute financially. In 1984, the Montgomery GI Bill was established, requiring active-duty personnel to contribute part of their pay during their first year of service. Made permanent in 1987, this program aimed to support veterans’ transition to civilian life while also encouraging military recruitment and retention, offering additional incentives such as supplemental benefits for specialized skills.

Post 9/11 GI Bill and Forever GI Bill. The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides education benefits to individuals who have served at least 90 days of active duty on or after September 10, 2001, with coverage for training pursued since August 1, 2009. These benefits are not limited to veterans alone—they are also available to active service members and, in many cases, can be extended to their families, making them a significant resource for long-term educational and career advancement. Eligibility for full or partial benefits depends on length of service, with those serving less than 36 months receiving a percentage of the total benefit.

The Forever GI Bill, as noted in Existing Law, builds on this foundation by enhancing existing education programs rather than creating a new one. It was designed to address gaps in the original Post-9/11 GI Bill and improve access and flexibility for service members, veterans, and their families. Specifically, the Forever GI Bill eliminated the 15-year time limitation for veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013 allowing eligible individuals to use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits without a time limit.

Priority registration. Priority registration decisions are made at the campus level at each segment. The process allows specific students access to classes ahead of the general student population. For example, continuing students generally are allowed to enroll in courses before new students enroll. As such, students who have priority registration status have an advantage over other students.

In addition to priority registration granted by the campuses, existing law requires the CSU and/or CCCs, and requests the UC to grant priority enrollment to the following students:

1. CSU California Promise students (CSU).
2. Current and former foster youth (CSU, CCCs and UC).
3. Homeless youth (CSU, CCCs and UC).
4. A member or former member of the US Armed Forces who is a resident of California and who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Guard, as specified, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for four academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty.
5. Any student who is a CalWORKs or Tribal TANF recipient (CCCs).
6. Students in the Community College Extended Opportunity Programs and Services program, and disabled students who are determined to be eligible for disabled student programs and services (CCCs).

Committee comments. Moving forward, the author may wish to consider including a reference to the state-level California Military Department GI Bill. While this program does not currently apply to dependents, inclusion in this bill would be consistent priority enrollment currently granted in existing law.

Current legislation. SB 892 (Grove) removes, commencing July 1, 2027, limitations on the duration and timing for which the CSU and CCDs are required, and the UC is requested, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a current and former member of the United States Armed Forces, as specified.

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

None on file

Opposition

None on file

Analysis Prepared by: Kevin J. Powers / HIGHER ED. / (916) 319-3960