Legislation introduced by State Senator Cathy Cook (R-Mystic) that allows active duty military personal, their spouses, and their immediate family to qualify for in-state tuition while they are stationed in Connecticut was signed into law by Governor M. Jodi Rell this afternoon (PA 05-110). Senator Cook introduced the bill on behalf of the Southeast Connecticut delegation and it was one of several bills aimed at providing assistance to active-duty servicemen and women in the state.

"I would like to applaud Governor M. Jodi Rell for stepping up to plate on this very important issue. Now those who are serving our country proudly as well as their family members will receive in-state tuition rates without having to endure any type of waiting period. It is this type of legislation that helps keep Connecticut at the forefront in terms of military-friendly states," said Senator Cook, who is the Chief Deputy Republican Leader of the Senate. "I am also hopeful this bill will encourage military servicemen and women to make Connecticut their permanent home after they have completed their active service."

Today's legislation was one in a series of bills to assist active duty military personal and those serving in the Connecticut National Guard as well as to build Connecticut's case for keeping the Submarine Base in Groton. The BRAC Commission must send its recommendations to President Bush by September 8 th .

"For years, Connecticut has maintained strong commitment to its military and today we continue with that tradition. We want to make the strongest case possible and demonstrate to the BRAC Committee that we are intent on keeping the Sub Base here in Groton where it belongs," continued Senator Cook.

Connecticut has adopted several bills that eases the transition into Connecticut for military personnel and their families and provides incentives for them to remain here.

"We successfully passed legislation that will exempt 50% of military personnel's retirement pay from the Connecticut income tax. Also, we are always working with other states to create reciprocal agreements for professional licenses to make the transition to Connecticut easier for the spouses of our military personnel," explained Senator Cook. "And, over the past few years the 'Troops to Teachers' program has offered training and education to dozens of military members transitioning into a career in teaching."