Existing law establishes the California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California as the 3 segments of public institutions of higher education in the state. Existing law requires the California State University and each community college district, and requests the University of California, 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.

This bill would, commencing July 1, 2027, remove the above-described provision limiting priority registration to 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. To the extent the bill would add additional duties on 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 California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California as the 3 segments of public institutions of higher education in the state. Existing law requires the California State University and each community college district, and requests the University of California, 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.

This bill would, commencing July 1, 2027, remove the above-described provision limiting priority registration to 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. To the extent the bill would add additional duties on 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 California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California as the 3 segments of public institutions of higher education in the state. Existing law requires the California State University and each community college district, and requests the University of California, 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.

This bill would, commencing July 1, 2027, remove the above-described provision limiting priority registration to 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. To the extent the bill would add additional duties on 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 California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California as the 3 segments of public institutions of higher education in the state. Existing law requires the California State University and each community college district, and requests the University of California, 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.

This bill would, commencing July 1, 2027, remove the above-described 15-year limitation. provision limiting priority registration to 4 academic years after leaving state or federal active duty for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. To the extent the bill would add additional duties on 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 California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California as the 3 segments of public institutions of higher education in the state. Existing law requires the California State University and each community college district, and requests the University of California, 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.

This bill would, commencing July 1, 2027, remove the above-described 15-year limitation. To the extent the bill would add additional duties on 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.

Date of Hearing: August 5, 2026

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

Buffy Wicks, Chair

SBPCA Bill Id:SB 892

Author:(Grove) – As Amended Ver:February 23, 2026

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

SUMMARY:

This bill, beginning July 1, 2027, requires a campus of the California State University (CSU), and of the California Community Colleges (CCC), and requests a campus of the University of California (UC), that administer a priority enrollment system, to provide priority enrollment registration to any California resident member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States, without regard to number of years removed from state or federal active duty and without limitation on the number of years a student may receive priority status.

FISCAL EFFECT:

Minor and absorbable costs to the campuses of the CCCs, CSU, and UC.

COMMENTS:

1. Purpose. According to the author:

Veterans and State Guard members have earned every opportunity to succeed when they return to civilian life. Many do not have the ability to enroll in college immediately after their service because they are working, raising families, or addressing health needs. They should not lose access to priority registration simply because life required them to wait. SB 892 ensures that priority registration is available whenever a veteran is ready to pursue higher education. By aligning California policy with the Federal Forever GI Bill, this measure guarantees that those who served our country can access the classes they need on a timeline that works for them.

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. The bill 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.

1. Related Legislation. AB 2203 (Tangipa), of the current legislative session, requires the CSU and CCC, and requests the UC, to provide priority enrollment to a student who receives a CalVet fee waiver or who is using any federal GI Bill benefits, beginning with the 2028-29 academic year.

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

Date of Hearing: June 30, 2026

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS

Pilar Schiavo, Chair

SBPCA Bill Id:SB 892

Author:(Grove) – As Amended Ver:February 23, 2026

SENATE VOTE: 36-0

SUBJECT: Public postsecondary education: priority registration: members and former members of the Armed Forces of the United States and State Guard.

SUMMARY: Eliminates, commencing July 1, 2027, the current time-based limitations on priority enrollment for current and former members of the United States (U.S.) Armed Forces and the State Guard. As a result, the California State University (CSU) and community college districts (CCD) would continue to be required, and the University of California (UC) would continue to be requested, to grant priority registration without regard to the timing or duration limits. Specifically, this bill:

1. Sunsets the existing veteran priority registration provisions on July 1, 2027, and repeals those statutes on January 1, 2028.
2. Removes the requirement that veterans use the priority registration benefit within 15 years of separating from service.
3. Eliminates the current limitation that restricts the use of the benefits to four academic years.
4. Includes the California Naval Militia and the California State Guard in the definition of Armed Forces.
5. Takes effect on July 1, 2027.

EXISTING 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. Requires the CSU and each CCD, 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)
3. 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)
4. 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)
5. 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)
6. Requires CCDs and the CSU and requests the UC to grant priority registration to students employed as first responders. (EDC § 66025.82)
7. 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)
8. 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. 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)
9. 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)
10. 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)

FISCAL EFFECT: According to the Senate Committee on Appropriations, pursuant to Senate Rule 28.8, no significant state costs and will cause no significant reduction in revenues.

COMMENTS:

1. PURPOSE OF THIS BILL. According to the author, veterans and State Guard members have earned every opportunity to succeed when they return to civilian life. Many do not have the ability to enroll in college immediately after their service because they are working, raising families, or addressing health needs. They should not lose access to priority registration simply because life requires them to wait. SB 892 ensures that priority registration is available whenever a veteran is ready to pursue higher education. By aligning California policy with the Federal Forever GI Bill, this measure guarantees that those who serve our country can access the classes they need on a timeline that works for them.
   
2. BACKGROUND.
   1. GI Bill. Education benefits for veterans in the U.S. began taking shape in the early twentieth 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 versions 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.
   2. Post 9/11 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.
   3. Forever GI Bill. 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.
   4. 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 CSU and CCCs, and requests 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 U.S. 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).
3. SUPPORT. A coalition of Veterans Service Organizations wrote in support, stating that “SB 892 aligns California with the federal Forever GI Bill by removing both the four-year and 15-year restrictions on priority registration. Many veterans do not enroll in higher education immediately upon leaving service. They may be working, raising families, or addressing health needs related to their service. A veteran who decides to pursue a degree a decade after discharge should not lose access to priority registration simply because life requires them to wait. Every other student group that receives priority registration in California -- foster youth, homeless youth, CalWORKs recipients, student parents, and first responders -- faces no time limitation. Priority registration does not guarantee a seat in a class. It ensures that veterans can enroll in the courses they need to stay on track toward a degree or certificate. For veterans relying on time-limited GI Bill benefits, being shut out of required courses can delay graduation, exhaust benefits early, and increase out-of-pocket costs.”
   
   The CSU Office of the Chancellor also wrote in support, arguing that “…by allowing eligible student veterans to access priority registration at any point in their educational journey, the bill expands opportunities for veterans to begin or return to their studies at the CSU without being constrained by a deadline. Additionally, this measure aligns with the CSU’s longstanding commitment to supporting veterans and military families and strengthens our public higher education system’s dedication to equity, access and student success. The CSU, and its 22 universities, remain committed to working with our veterans to provide the educational opportunities they desire.”
4. DOUBLE REFERRAL. This bill is double referred; it passed the Assembly Committee on Higher Education by a vote of 10-0 on June 9, 2026.
5. RELATED LEGISLATION. AB 2203 (Tangipa) Requires CSU, CCDs), and requests 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.
   
6. 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 U.S. 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 421 (Calderon) of 2015 would have required the governing board of a CCD in each CCC within the district, a veterans’ counselor; and, would have required the CCC Board of Governors to adopt regulations to establish and maintain the minimum qualifications for services as a veterans counselor. AB 421 was held on the Assembly Committee on Appropriations suspense file.
   3. AB 13 (Chávez) would have requires a CCC to exempt from nonresident tuition a nonresident student who is a covered individual as defined pursuant to section 702 of the federal Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014, Public Law 113-143, who is using, or intending to use GI Bill education benefits while living in California and enrolled at a community college. AB 13 passed the Assembly, but it was never set for hearing in the Senate.
   4. AB 27 (Chávez) would have required CSU, and request UC, exempt nonresident students using GI Bill education benefits from paying nonresident tuition while enrolled as a student of that segment. AB 27 had the hearing postponed by the Senate Committee on Education.
   5. 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

American Legion, Department of California
Amvets, Department of California
Bakersfield College
California State Commanders Veterans Council
California State University, Bakersfield
California State University, Office of the Chancellor
City of Bakersfield
County of Fresno
County of Kern
Fresno County Board of Supervisors
Fresno, California State University
Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce
Kern County Board of Supervisors Phillip Peters
Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office
Kern County Supervisor Chris Parlier
Kern County Supervisor Jeff Flores
Kyle Pennington, Fresno County Veterans Service Officer
Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters
San Jose-Evergreen Community College District
Student Senate for California Community Colleges
Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

Opposition

None on file.

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

Date of Hearing: June 9, 2026

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION

Mike Fong, Chair

SBPCA Bill Id:SB 892

Author:(Grove) – As Amended Ver:February 23, 2026

SENATE VOTE: 36-0

SUBJECT: Public postsecondary education: priority registration: members and former members of the Armed Forces of the United States and State Guard

SUMMARY: Eliminates, commencing July 1, 2027, the current time-based limitations on priority enrollment for current and former members of the United States Armed Forces and the State Guard. As a result, the California State University (CSU) and community college districts (CCD) would continue to be required, and the University of California (UC) would continue to be requested, to grant priority registration without regard to the timing or duration limits. Specifically, this bill:

1. Sunsets the existing veteran priority registration provisions on July 1, 2027, and repeals those statutes on January 1, 2028.
2. Removes the requirement that veterans use the priority registration benefit within 15 years of separating from service.
3. Eliminates the current limitation restricting the use of the benefits to four academic years.
4. Includes the California Naval Militia and the California State Guard in the definition of Armed Forces.
5. Takes effect on July 1, 2027.

EXISTING 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) Section 66010)
2. 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)
3. 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)
4. 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)
5. 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 Section 66025.81)
6. Requires CCDs and the CSU and requests the UC to grant priority registration to students employed as first responders. (EDC Section 66025.82)
7. 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)
8. 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)
9. 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) Section 890, et seq.)
10. 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.)

FISCAL EFFECT: Pursuant to Senate Rule 28.8, the Senate Committee on Appropriations found that any additional state costs are not significant and do not and will not require the appropriation of additional state funds, and the bill will cause no significant reduction in revenues.

COMMENTS: Purpose. According to the author, “…veterans and State Guard members have earned every opportunity to succeed when they return to civilian life. Many do not have the ability to enroll in college immediately after their service because they are working, raising families, or addressing health needs. They should not lose access to priority registration simply because life required them to wait. SB 892 ensures that priority registration is available whenever a veteran is ready to pursue higher education. By aligning California policy with the Federal Forever GI Bill, this measure guarantees that those who served our country can access the classes they need on a timeline that works for them.”

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 vesions 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 staff notes that SB 892 (Grove) includes former and current members of the California Naval Militia and the California State Guard to the definition of US Armed Forces for purposes of granting priority registration. This change is consistent with existing current law, and is largely technical in nature.

Eliminates the 4-year duration of priority registration eligibility. In addition to removing the 15-year timeline for when veterans may receive priority registration, this bill eliminates the 4-year rule limiting how long veterans may use the benefit. Committee staff notes that existing state law grants priority registration to several student groups, none of which are subject to time limitations. In that respect, the change proposed in this bill appears to align veterans’ eligibility with those provisions.

Arguments in support. A coalition of Veterans Service Organizations wrote in support, stating that “SB 892 aligns California with the federal Forever GI Bill by removing both the four-year and 15-year restrictions on priority registration. Many veterans do not enroll in higher education immediately upon leaving service. They may be working, raising families, or addressing health needs related to their service. A veteran who decides to pursue a degree a decade after discharge should not lose access to priority registration simply because life required them to wait. Every other student group that receives priority registration in California -- foster youth, homeless youth, CalWORKs recipients, student parents, and first responders -- faces no such time limitation. Priority registration does not guarantee a seat in a class. It ensures that veterans can enroll in the courses they need to stay on track toward a degree or certificate. For veterans relying on time-limited GI Bill benefits, being shut out of required courses can delay graduation, exhaust benefits early, and increase out-of-pocket costs.”

The CSU Office of the Chancellor also wrote in support, arguing that “…by allowing eligible student veterans to access priority registration at any point in their educational journey, the bill expands opportunities for veterans to begin or return to their studies at the CSU without being constrained by a deadline. Additionally, this measure aligns with the CSU’s longstanding commitment to supporting veterans and military families and strengthens our public higher education system’s dedication to equity, access and student success. The CSU, and its 22 universities, remain committed to working with our veterans to provide the educational opportunities they desire.”

Current legislation. AB 2203 (Tangipa, 2026) 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. AB 2203 (Tangipa) is set to be heard by the Senate Committee on Education on June 10, 2026.

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

American Legion-Department of California

AMVETS-Department of California

California State Commanders Veterans Council

California State University, Office of the Chancellor

City of Bakersfield

County of Kern

Fresno County Board of Supervisors

Student Senate for California Community Colleges

Military Officers Association of America-California Council of Chapters

Vietnam Veterans of America-California State Council

Opposition

None on file.

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

 CONSENT  

Bill No: SB 892

Author: Grove (R), et al.

Amended: 2/23/26

Vote: 21

SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE: 7-0, 3/18/26

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

SENATE MILITARY & VETERANS COMMITTEE: 4-0, 4/20/26

AYES: Archuleta, Grove, McNerney, Umberg

NO VOTE RECORDED: Menjivar

SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: Senate Rule 28.8

SUBJECT: Public postsecondary education: priority registration: members and former members of the Armed Forces of the United States and State Guard

SOURCE: Author

DIGEST:

This bill, commencing July 1, 2027, removes limitations on the duration and timing for which the California State University (CSU) and community college districts (CCD) are required, and the University of California (UC) is requested to grant priority registration for enrollment to a student who is a current and former member of the United States (US) Armed Forces.

ANALYSIS:

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 (EC) § 66010)
2. Requires the CSU and each CCD, 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. (EC § 66025.8)
3. 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)
4. 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)
5. 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. (EC § 66025.81)
6. Requires CCDs and the CSU and requests the UC to grant priority registration to students employed as first responders. (EC § 66025.82)
7. 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 § 3321, et seq.)

This bill:

1. 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 of a student who is a current and former members of the US Armed Forces.
2. Strikes the provisions limiting priority registration to 4 academic years after leaving and for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty.
3. Explicitly includes the California Naval Militia and the California State Guard in the definition of Armed Forces.
4. Sunsets and recasts provisions governing priority registration for current and former members of the Armed Forces, delaying the implementation of the bill’s provisions to July 1, 2027.

Comments

1. Need for the bill. According to the author, “Veterans and State Guard members have earned every opportunity to succeed when they return to civilian life. Many do not have the ability to enroll in college immediately after their service because they are working, raising families, or addressing health needs. They should not lose access to priority registration simply because life required them to wait…

“SB 892 ensures that priority registration is available whenever a veteran is ready to pursue higher education. By aligning California policy with the Federal Forever GI Bill, this measure guarantees that those who served our country can access the classes they need on a timeline that works for them.”

1. Federal Forever GI Bill removed 15-year eligibility restriction. The Forever GI Bill, among other things, removes the 15-year eligibility limitation for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for veterans discharged from active duty on or after 2013, allowing those veterans to use their education benefits at any time after separation from service. Prior to this change, veterans generally had 15 years from their last discharge from active duty to use these benefits. Existing state law governing priority registration for service members attending California public higher education institutions appears to mirror the now outdated 15-year eligibility window. State statute has not been updated to reflect the changes made to the GI Bill in 2017. This bill seeks to align state priority registration requirements with the federal removal of the 15-year eligibility window, thereby allowing eligible veterans to access priority registration regardless of when they leave state or federal active duty.
2. 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:
3. CSU California Promise students (CSU).
4. Current and former foster youth (CSU, CCCs and UC).
5. Homeless youth (CSU, CCCs and UC).
6. 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, 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 (CSU, CCCs, and UC).
7. Any student who is a CalWORKs or Tribal TANF recipient (CCCs).
8. 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).

This bill explicitly adds former and current members of the California Naval

Militia and the California State Guard to the definition of US Armed Forces for

purposes of granting priority registration. The addition appears largely technical, as current law already provides priority registration to members of the State Guard, and the California Naval Militia is a component of the California State Guard.

1. Eliminates the 4-year duration of priority registration eligibility. In addition to removing the 15-year timeline for when veterans may receive priority registration, this bill eliminates the 4-year rule limiting how long veterans may use the benefit. Unlike the federal change made under the Forever GI Bill governing when veterans may use their educational benefits, the duration of the award remains unchanged—eligible veterans may qualify for up to 4 years of the Post-9/11 GI Bill entitlement. Eliminating the 4-year eligibility restriction for priority registration would effectively extend the state benefit beyond the duration of a veteran’s Post-9/11 GI Bill eligibility. As noted in comment 4) of this analysis, existing state law grants priority registration to several student groups, none of which are subject to time limitations. As such, the change proposed in this bill appears to be consistent with eligibility requirements extended to other student groups.

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

SUPPORT: (Verified 4/27/26)

American Legion, Department of California

Amvets, Department of California

Bakersfield College

California State Commanders Veterans Council

California State University, Bakersfield

California State University, Office of the Chancellor

County of Fresno

County of Kern

Fresno, California State University

Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce

Kern County Board of Supervisors Phillip Peters

Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office

Kern County Supervisor Chris Parlier

Kern County Supervisor Jeff Flores

Kyle Pennington, Fresno County Veterans Service Officer

Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters

Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

OPPOSITION: (Verified 4/27/26)

None received

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

4/28/26 16:33:30

**** END ****

SENATE COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS

Senator Bob Archuleta, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular

Bill No: SB 892 Hearing Date: 4/20/26

Subject: Public postsecondary education: priority registration: members and former members of the Armed Forces of the United States and State Guard

DESCRIPTION

Summary:

This bill, commencing July 1, 2027, eliminates the current time-based limitations on priority enrollment for current and former members of the United States Armed Forces. As a result, the California State University and community college districts would continue to be required, and the University of California would continue to be requested, to grant priority registration without regard to those timing or duration limits.

Existing law:

1. Requires the California State University (CSU) and community college districts, and requests the University of California (UC), to grant priority registration to eligible veterans and State Guard members. Ed. Code § 66025.8, subd. (a)
2. Provides that this priority registration benefit applies for four academic years and must be used within 15 years of leaving active duty. Ed. Code § 66025.8, subd. (a)
3. Defines eligible individuals as California residents who served in the Armed Forces or State Guard and received an honorable, general, or other than honorable discharge. Ed. Code § 66025.8, subd. (a)
4. Excludes individuals with a dishonorable or bad conduct discharge. Ed. Code § 66025.8, subd. (b)

This bill:

1. Sunsets the existing veteran priority registration provisions on July 1, 2027, and repeals those statutes on January 1, 2028.
2. Removes the requirement that veterans use the priority registration benefit within 15 years of separating from service.
3. Eliminates the current limitation restricting use to four academic years.
4. Takes effect on July 1, 2027.

BACKGROUND

California has long had one of the largest veteran populations in the nation, which has made the transition from military service to civilian life a significant state policy issue. For many veterans and service members, postsecondary education is not simply an academic opportunity, but part of the broader reintegration process after active duty. Access to college can affect a veteran’s ability to obtain civilian credentials, enter the workforce, increase earning potential, and build long-term stability for themselves and their families. From a military and veterans affairs perspective, educational access is therefore closely tied to the state’s larger interest in supporting successful transition, reducing barriers after service, and ensuring that veterans are able to make full use of the benefits and opportunities available to them.

That transition, however, often does not occur on a traditional timeline. Many veterans do not move directly from active duty into the classroom. Instead, they may spend years addressing employment needs, family responsibilities, service-connected health conditions, or the general demands of reestablishing themselves in civilian life before they are ready to begin or return to school. The Legislature has recognized this reality over time. SB 892reflects an understanding that veterans’ educational pathways are often shaped by the unique circumstances of military service and transition, rather than by the immediate progression more typical of traditional students.

Under existing law, the California State University and community college districts are required, and the University of California is requested, to grant priority registration to qualifying current and former members of the United States Armed Forces who are California residents and meet specified discharge requirements. But current law only allows that benefit to be used for four academic years and within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty. Priority registration gives eligible veterans and service members earlier access to coursework, which can be especially important in situations where required classes fill quickly and enrollment delays can postpone completion.

COMMENT

According to the author: “Veterans and State Guard members have earned every opportunity to succeed when they return to civilian life. Many do not have the ability to enroll in college immediately after their service because they are working, raising families, or addressing health needs. They should not lose access to priority registration simply because life requires them to wait. SB 892 ensures that priority registration is available whenever a veteran is ready to pursue higher education. By aligning California policy with the Federal Forever GI Bill, this measure guarantees that those who served our country can access the classes they need on a timeline that works for them. California should stand behind our veterans not just when they come home, but whenever they choose to build their future.”

This bill removes the existing four-year duration limit and the 15-year post-service eligibility window for priority registration beginning July 1, 2027. Existing state law mirrors an older federal framework that limited when veterans could use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. In 2017, however, the federal Forever GI Bill eliminated the 15-year time limit for veterans discharged on or after January 1, 2013. This bill seeks to update California’s priority registration statute to better reflect that federal change and ensure that veterans may access priority registration whenever they are ready to pursue higher education.

Removing these limits may improve access for veterans whose education has been postponed by work, caregiving responsibilities, disability, or other reintegration challenges. It may also better support mid-career retraining and lifelong learning by recognizing that many veterans pursue higher education on delayed or interrupted timelines. The proposal would place veterans more in line with other priority registration groups under state law that are not subject to comparable time-based restrictions.

Previous legislation

AB 2133 (Blumenfield, 2012) extended the period to use the benefit to 15 years after leaving active duty. (Chapter 400, Statutes of 2012),

SB 813 (Committee on Veterans Affairs, 2011) expanded the priority registration eligibility period from 2 years to 4 academic years. (Chapter 375, Statutes of 2011)

POSITIONS

Sponsor: Author.

Support: Bakersfield College

California State University, Bakersfield

California State University, Office of the Chancellor

County of Kern

California State University, Fresno

Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce

Kern County Supervisor Chris Parlier

Kern County Supervisor Jeff Flores

Kyle Pennington, Fresno County Veterans Service Officer

Phillip Peters, Kern County Board of Supervisors, District 1

County of Fresno

Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office

Oppose: None

-- END --

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Senator Sasha Renée Pérez, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular

Bill No: Hearing Date: March 18, 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 removes, commencing July 1, 2027, limitations on the duration and timing for which the California State University (CSU) and community college districts (CCD) are required, and the University of California (UC) is requested, to grant priority registration for enrollment to a current and former member of the United States (US) Armed Forces.

BACKGROUND

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 (EC) § 66010)
2. Requires the CSU and each CCD, 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. (EC § 66025.8)
3. 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)
4. 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)
5. 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. (EC § 66025.81)
6. Requires CCDs and the CSU and requests the UC to grant priority registration to students employed as first responders. (EC § 66025.82)
7. 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 § 3321, et seq.)

ANALYSIS

This bill 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 of current and former members of the US Armed Forces. Specifically, it:

1. Strikes the provisions limiting priority registration to 4 academic years after leaving and for use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty.
2. Explicitly includes the California Naval Militia and the California State Guard in the definition of Armed Forces.
3. Sunsets and recasts provisions governing priority registration for current and former members of the Armed Forces, delaying the implementation of the bill’s provisions to July 1, 2027.

STAFF COMMENTS

1. Need for the bill. According to the author, “Veterans and State Guard members have earned every opportunity to succeed when they return to civilian life. Many do not have the ability to enroll in college immediately after their service because they are working, raising families, or addressing health needs. They should not lose access to priority registration simply because life required them to wait.

“SB 892 ensures that priority registration is available whenever a veteran is ready to pursue higher education. By aligning California policy with the Federal Forever GI Bill, this measure guarantees that those who served our country can access the classes they need on a timeline that works for them.”

1. Federal Forever GI Bill removed 15-year eligibility restriction. The Forever GI Bill, among other things, removed the 15-year eligibility limitation for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for veterans discharged from active duty on or after 2013, allowing those veterans to use their education benefits at any time after separation from service. Prior to this change, veterans generally had 15 years from their last discharge from active duty to use these benefits. Existing state law governing priority registration for service members attending California public higher education institutions appears to mirror the now-outdated 15-year eligibility window. State statute has not been updated to reflect the changes made to the GI Bill in 2017. This bill seeks to align state priority registration requirements with the federal removal of the 15-year eligibility window, thereby allowing eligible veterans to access priority registration regardless of when they leave state or federal active duty.
2. 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. 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, 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 (CSU, CCCs, 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).

This bill explicitly adds former and current members of the California Naval Militia and the California State Guard to the definition of US Armed Forces for purposes of granting priority registration. The addition appears largely technical, as current law already provides priority registration to members of the State Guard, and the California Naval Militia is a component of the California State Guard.

1. Eliminates the 4-year duration of priority registration eligibility. In addition to removing the 15-year timeline for when veterans may receive priority registration, this bill eliminates the 4-year rule limiting how long veterans may use the benefit. Unlike the federal change made under the Forever GI Bill governing when veterans may use their educational benefits, the duration of the award remains unchanged—eligible veterans may qualify for up to 4 years of the Post-9/11 GI Bill entitlement. Eliminating the 4-year eligibility restriction for priority registration would effectively extend the state benefit beyond the duration of a veteran’s Post-9/11 GI Bill eligibility. As noted in comment 4) of this analysis, existing state law grants priority registration to several student groups, none of which are subject to time limitations. In that respect, the change proposed in this bill appears to align veterans’ eligibility with those provisions.

SUPPORT

California State University, Bakersfield

Bakersfield College

California State University, Office of the Chancellor

County of Fresno

County of Kern

Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce

Kern County Board of Supervisors Phillip Peters

Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office

Kern County Supervisor Chris Parlier

Kern County Supervisor Jeff Flores

Kyle Pennington, Fresno County Veterans Service Officer

OPPOSITION

None received

-- END --