WASHINGTON, DC -- In an effort to ensure that support for America's newest generation of veterans extends well beyond their tours of duty, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today helped pass the 21st Century G.I. Bill in the Senate by a veto-proof 75-22 vote. The bill, which Reed cosponsored, marks the greatest expansion of the GI bill in over 25 years and will provide veterans with 100 percent of their tuition to attend a public university.

"Our veterans coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan are not getting enough support in transitioning back to civilian life. President Bush sent our soldiers off to war, but his budgets have shortchanged our veterans when they come home," said Reed, a former Army Captain. "I opposed the war in Iraq from the start and have been working hard to get the Administration to change course, but I am committed to ensuring that we honor the sacrifice of every brave American man and woman who serves our nation in uniform."

The bipartisan G.I. Bill - cosponsored by more than half of the Senate and a majority of the U.S. House of Representatives - will give this newest generation of veterans the same opportunities enjoyed by World War II veterans.

"My family benefitted from the GI Bill when my father came home from World War II. Passing this legislation will ensure that today's veterans will also have a chance to get an education and support their families when they return home from the battlefield. I commend Senators Jim Webb and Chuck Hagel for their bipartisan commitment and dedication in spearheading this effort to help America's veterans," concluded Reed.

The 21st Century GI Bill will:

• Help a large and deserving group of young men and women readjust to the civilian life we enjoy because of the sacrifices they make.
• Help America's veterans afford an education so they will have the tools to succeed at home after their successes in battle.
• Reward those American's who choose to serve in our military.
• Benefit our economy for everyone.

Now that it has been approved by the U.S. Senate, the bill must be conferenced with the U.S. House of Representatives. The final bill must then be approved by both chambers before it can be sent to the President to be signed into law.