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Congress·In Committee·H.R. 5436

Veterans' Education: Protecting Access to College Transcripts

To amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit an educational institution from withholding a transcript from an individual who pursued a course or program of education at such institution using Post-9/11 educational assistance.

about 1 month ago·View on Congress.gov·Read full text

This bill is currently in the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs after a subcommittee recently approved it. It is actively moving through the legislative process as it waits for the full committee to review it next. There is no companion bill currently listed for this legislation.

Legislative Progress

House
Senate
President
Law

Key Points

  • This bill would stop colleges and trade schools from refusing to give veterans their official transcripts just because they owe the school money. It specifically protects students who use Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.
  • Many schools currently 'lock' transcripts if a student has unpaid fees, such as library fines or parking tickets. This bill would make that practice illegal for veterans, ensuring they can always access their academic records.
  • This change is important because without a transcript, veterans often cannot transfer their credits to a different school, apply for many jobs, or get the professional licenses they need to start a career.
  • By removing this barrier, the bill aims to help veterans transition more smoothly into the workforce or continue their education without being held back by small debts or administrative disputes.

Milestones

3 milestones6 actions
Feb 24, 2026House

Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

Feb 24, 2026House

Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held

Jan 21, 2026House

Subcommittee Hearings Held

Oct 1, 2025House

Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

Sep 17, 2025House

Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

To amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit an educational institution from withholding a transcript from an individual who pursued a course or program of education at such institution using Post-9/11 educational assistance.

Bill NumberHR 5436
Congress119th Congress
ChamberHouse of Representatives
Latest ActionForwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.
Read Full Bill Text

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(1)
R: 1

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