WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Jim Banks (R-IN) introduced the bipartisan Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act to help veterans pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), including agricultural science, computer science, information support services, and health care. The legislation would modify the requirements of the current Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship to make the program accessible to more veterans.

"Our veterans come from all walks of life to serve our nation - and they bring with them a wealth of experience when they return to civilian life," said Klobuchar. "This legislation will help veterans enter good-paying jobs in science, health care, and technology and it will help employers meet their hiring needs. By supporting veterans through scholarships for education and career training, we not only help them succeed, but also strengthen our nation and our economy."

"Supporting our veterans means more than honoring their service. It means giving them real opportunities to turn their service and skills into high-demand careers that strengthen our economy and keep America competitive," said Banks.

The Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act will assist veterans in their pursuit of degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) by removing the requirement that applicants must first exhaust their Post 9-11/GI Bill benefits before they can apply, making it easier to cover continued studies in STEM subjects for veterans still using their GI Bill benefits.

This bill also reduces the waiting period by allowing veterans to apply for the scholarship earlier in their studies than is currently allowed.

Senator Klobuchar has long supported veterans pursuing further education and civilian careers in STEM fields.

In 2020, Klobuchar partnered with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) on the Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act, which was signed into law. That legislation assists veterans re-entering the workforce by directing the National Science Foundation to encourage veterans to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

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