[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 89 (Monday, June 25, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1190]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            21ST CENTURY MONTGOMERY GI BILL ENHANCEMENT ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 19, 2001

  Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the passage of 
H.R. 1291 that amended the Montgomery GI Bill which would greatly 
increase the appropriations for our veterans who are seeking higher 
education. Under the GI Bill veterans would receive $800 a month--a 
$150 a month increase--during fiscal year 2002; $950 in 2003; and 
$1,100 in 2004. These funds are essential in order to keep up with 
soaring education costs.
  One of the biggest reasons why I'm such a staunch supporter and 
believer in the Montgomery GI Bill is because I was a beneficiary. 
Following my service in the Korean War, the subsidy provided under the 
program allowed me to attend and graduate from New York University and 
St. Johns Law School.
  Madam Speaker, fellow congressman, even though I would have liked 
more Democratic input in the bill, I am satisfied with the final 
product. H.R. 1291 is a piece of legislation that veterans and all 
Americans can be proud of.




                          ____________________