The U.S. state of Wisconsin’s government is planning for the return of the G.I. Bill and has taken steps to include the veterans’ benefit in the state’s biennial budget for 2011-2013.

Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker has pledged that the addition of the G.I. Bill along with other veterans’ benefits programs will have full funding through the beefing up the Veterans Trust Fund. The state’s trust fund was nearly bankrupt in past years.  However, new plans to inject state money into the fund will decidedly save it from becoming insolvent.

State commander for Disabled American Veterans, John Hoeft, was quoted as saying, “Governor Scott Walker’s proposed budget would restore a promise to Wisconsin’s veterans by fully reversing enacted cuts to the Wisconsin G.I. Bill, provide for a new veterans nursing home in Chippewa Falls, and maintain funding for key state veterans programs and services. This budget proposal is good for veterans.”
Additionally, a statewide veteran outreach effort would also be included in the Governor’s plan.  The outreach will improve communications between the state and its military members regarding veterans’ benefits.  The improved outreach effort will also aid in the transition from active duty military to post-military life.

Wisconsin’s veterans’ organizations such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Disabled American Veterans and AMVETS are actively supporting the plan proposed by Governor Walker. These groups were all represented and in attendance with Walker during the announcement to bring back the G.I. Bill.