Expanded GI Bill Signed Into Law
BU IN DC
School of Education Dean ad interim Catherine O’Connor participated in the American Education Research Association’s Consortium of University and Research Institutions Fall Policy Meeting on September 17 and 18.
EXPANDED GI BILL SIGNED INTO LAW
The bipartisan Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017 (Public Law 115-48) was signed into law in August, expanding the benefits that veterans are entitled to under the G.I. Bill. The “Forever G.I. Bill” eliminates the previous 15-year time limit to utilize postsecondary education benefits, offers more funding for individuals who serve in the National Guard and reserves, and authorizes additional scholarships for veterans who pursue degrees in science, mathematics, engineering, or medicine. The new law also expands the benefits available to survivors and dependents of eligible veterans.
SENATE ADVANCES DEFENSE POLICY BILL
On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate passed its version of the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which sets policy and spending priorities for the Department of Defense (DOD) each year. The bill proposes to slightly increase basic research funded by the DOD and to give the agency flexibility to enter into different types of contracts that could improve its engagement with universities. The U.S. House of Representatives passed its own version of the NDAA over the summer, and the two chambers will need to work out the differences between their respective bills before a final measure can be signed into law.
GRANTS NEWS YOU CAN USE
In response to recent hurricanes, the National Science Foundation is soliciting proposals that improve the fundamental understanding of hurricanes, probe the human aspects of natural disasters, further the efficacy of emergency responses, and help reduce further damage. Investigators may submit a proposal via several mechanisms: RAPID, which provides quick support for projects of severe urgency; EAGER, which enables high-risk, high-reward research; or as a supplement to an existing grant. Prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out to program officers prior to submission to determine if their proposals would satisfy the requirements for this particular solicitation.