New G.I. Bill - NOT YET!!!

Published July 15, 2008
By Education and Training Center staff

MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Many have heard that President Bush recently signed the Bill for a new and different GI Bill (referred to as Ch. 33). The news reports and excited speculation have created an onslaught of premature business to Education & Training Centers Air Force-wide.

At this time, Education Officers are NOT authorized to allow transfer of benefits, change from Ch. 30 to Ch. 33, request refund of $1,200, or any other action related to the new Bill. The program will not be implemented until next year, perhaps as late as August 2009. DoD and Air Staff must first establish policy and procedures, configure computers and design forms, and provide guidance and training to customer service personnel.

The Dept of Veterans Affairs GI Bill Web site at http://www.gibill.va.gov/ offers additional information on what the benefit includes and who may be eligible to participate. The site also offers the opportunity to sign-up to receive e-mail messages as new information becomes available.

Again, beware of anything you read or hear. The new G.I. Bill has been signed; however, it is still at least a year from implementation. Call 731-3531 with any questions, but understand that the above information is all that's available at this time. Your best bet is the above Web site.