Senator Cathy Cook, R-Mystic, today secured Senate approval of her initiative to permit active duty military members stationed in Connecticut to attend the state’s colleges, community colleges and university at the tuition rates charged in-state students.

Senator Cook’s bill, SB 398 An Act Concerning In-State Tuition For Active Duty Military Stationed In Connecticut, was passed unanimously by the Senate and is now subject to further action by the House of Representatives.

“The state already charges in-state tuition to the spouses and dependents of active military personnel stationed in Connecticut. This bill simply extends the same privilege to active military personnel stationed here,” said Senator Cook, adding that the bill was co-sponsored by other eastern Connecticut legislators.

“This is part of our ongoing effort to make certain that the federal government knows how much we want to the submarine base to remain open, and how much we value the men and women stationed there. This bill is part of a package of legislation we are proposing as part of our campaign to keep the base open. Really, it corrects an oversight in existing state law regarding the benefits we extend to active duty military,” she added.

“I was honored to introduce this legislation on behalf eastern Connecticut legislators, and other legislators, who are working so hard to help us keep the base open. I am hopeful that the House will pass this measure soon, and I know the governor will sign it.” said Senator Cook.