SB355 Alabama 2010 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Wendell Mitchell

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2010

Title

Veterans, education benefits, qualifications altered, Sec. 31-6-11 am'd.

Summary

SB355 would let veterans and certain dependents qualify for Alabama veterans' education benefits after only 30 days of Alabama residency before applying, instead of needing a full year.

What This Bill Does

It amends the residency rule for veterans to require at least 30 days of Alabama residency prior to entering service (down from one year). For dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, it adds alternative residency proofs (such as the veteran's 30-day residency, five years of residency, or death) and continues required service verification. Benefits remain tied to wartime or extrahazardous service conditions, with a minimum service period (90 days, or less if disability-related) required for eligibility. The act becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Veterans applying for educational benefits: eligibility broadened to include those who were Alabama residents for at least 30 days before entering service.
• Wives, widows, or children of disabled or deceased veterans applying for benefits: can qualify with updated residency proofs and veteran residency history (or five-year bona fide residency or death) plus required service verification.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 31-6-11 to change the veteran residency requirement from at least one year to at least 30 days immediately prior to entrance into service.
• For dependents (wife, widow, or child) of disabled or deceased veterans, adds acceptable proofs of veteran's residency (30 days, five years, or death) and requires proof of relationship and service termination.
• Maintains that benefits require service in wartime or under extrahazardous conditions, with a minimum of 90 days of service (less than 90 days allowed if discharged due to service-connected disability).
• Effective date: becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and approval by the Governor.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Veterans