CHAPTER 488

H.P. 1126 - L.D. 1533

An Act To Create the Maine National Guard Education

Assistance Program

Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas, the National Guard Education Assistance Pilot Program has been extremely successful in attracting recruits to the Maine National Guard, and those recruits are using the existing funding at a rate higher than anticipated rate; and

Whereas, the National Guard Education Assistance Pilot Program has inadequate funds remaining in the accounts to pay tuition benefits for the upcoming summer sessions that begin in May 2003; and

Whereas, the Maine National Guard Education Assistance Pilot Program provides funding flexibility to the Adjutant General that allows the Adjutant General to utilize existing funds to meet the tuition needs for the upcoming summer session; and

Whereas, the Maine National Guard must have a viable education assistance program to maintain an adequate military force within the State; and

Whereas, once these soldiers and airmen earn their college degrees they will further enhance the competitive labor force within the State of Maine; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of