Legion thanks Tennessee senator’s support in closing 90-10 loophole

American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford issued a statement thanking Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., for his support in closing the 90-10 loophole.

“The time for equivocation on 90-10 is over,” Oxford said. “We are thrilled to see partisanship set aside to do the right thing for our nation’s veterans. Sen. Alexander’s leadership and guidance in pushing this matter forward is a pivotal step toward securing access to quality education for the veterans of today and for generations to come. The American Legion looks forward to working with Sen. Alexander’s office to secure a Reauthorization of the Higher Education Act that is in the best interest of our nation’s veterans and their families.”

The 90-10 rule mandates for-profit schools obtain at least 10 percent of their revenue from sources other than Title IV education funds, which are the primary source of student aid. GI Bill benefits fall with the 10 percent category, making them valuable to for-profit institutions and leaving veterans vulnerable to predatory institutions.

Congress’ bipartisan push to close the 90-10 loophole has coincided with The American Legion’s study of the topic during last month’s Fall Meetings of the National Executive Committee. The study resulted in the passage of Resolution 15: Support Greater GI Bill Outcomes By Closing 90-10 Loophole.