Kiggans, Neguse Introduce Second GI Bill to Expand Educational Opportunity for America’s Servicemembers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Reps. Jen Kiggans (VA-02) and Joe Neguse (CO-02) introduced the 20-Year Promise Act to expand post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for servicemembers who have dedicated 20 or more years to the United States Armed Forces. This bill will serve as a second GI Bill by providing additional months of educational entitlement for servicemembers and their families.

Congresswoman Kiggans said, “Our servicemembers who dedicate 20 or more years to defending our nation have upheld their commitment to America. The 20-Year Promise Act ensures we uphold ours. By expanding Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to provide an additional 36 months of educational assistance, this legislation recognizes the sacrifices of career servicemembers and gives them and their families greater flexibility to pursue advanced degrees, certifications, or transfer benefits to their dependents. As a Navy veteran, I know firsthand the commitment it takes to serve a full military career, and I’m proud to introduce this legislation that invests in their success after they leave the service.”

Read a one-pager here.

Read the bill here.

Background:

Congresswoman Kiggans has been a tireless advocate for improving the lives of our men and women who served our country in uniform. As a Navy veteran, a Navy wife, and a Navy Mom, these issues are deeply personal to the Congresswoman.

In February 2026, Rep. Kiggans’ Representing Our Seniors at the VA Act advanced out of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. This bipartisan bill would add new members to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Geriatrics and Gerontology Advisory Committee. These additions would include a representative from the National Association of State Veterans Homes (NASVH), an individual with experience serving veterans or their families in a state home, and a licensed nursing home administrator. Read the press release here

In January 2026, Rep. Kiggans’ Veterans Energy Transition (VET) Act received a legislative hearing in the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity. This bill would establish pathways to help connect transitioning servicemembers with high-quality jobs in America’s energy and advanced manufacturing sectors. Read the press release here. 

In August 2025, Rep. Kiggans and Rep. Wesley Bell (MO-01) introduced the Financial Opportunities for Retirees and Warriors Advancing Retirement Development (FORWARD) Act, which will enable military retirees and 100% disabled veterans to continue contributing to their retirement accounts even after separation from service. Read the press release here.

In July 2025, Rep. Kiggans secured nearly $80 million for the construction of a new Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Virginia Beach. This facility will expand access to healthcare, counseling, and benefits for the region’s more than 76,000 veterans. Read the press release here.