The National Guard Association of Connecticut (NGACT) is proud to celebrate the passage of Public Act 26-12, landmark legislation that expands higher education benefits for members of the Connecticut National Guard by providing a waiver of mandatory college fees at Connecticut’s public colleges and universities. Finally, the new law builds upon Connecticut’s long-standing National Guard tuition waiver program by addressing one of the remaining financial barriers faced by Guard members pursuing higher education.
For over 40 years, Connecticut National Guard members have been eligible for tuition waivers at public institutions, but mandatory student fees often remained a significant out-of-pocket expense. Public Act 26-12 closes that gap, ensuring that Guard members can access a truly affordable college education while continuing their service to the state and nation. The legislation expands the existing tuition waiver benefit to include mandatory fees for eligible National Guard members attending UConn, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities, and CT State Community College campuses.
NGACT played an active role in advocating for this important improvement. Association President Katie Zarzycka, along with members of the NGACT legislative team, testified before the Connecticut General Assembly’s Public Safety and Security Committee in support of the proposal, emphasizing the importance of delivering on the state’s promise of educational opportunity for those who serve. In her testimony, Zarzycka highlighted how mandatory fees had become a growing financial burden for Guardsmen and their families and urged lawmakers to fully support the educational benefits that help recruit and retain qualified service members. Several members of the Connecticut National Guard and retirees also provided written testimony in support of the bill.
The successful passage of Public Act 26-12 demonstrates the value of sustained legislative engagement and grassroots advocacy. NGACT worked alongside legislators, military leaders, and partner organizations to ensure lawmakers understood the impact that educational benefits have on readiness, recruitment, retention, and quality of life for Connecticut National Guard members. This bill is the culmination of decades of advocacy.
Governor Ned Lamont signed the legislation into law on June 11, 2026, flanked by Police Officers, Firefighters, and Guardsmen. The Governor noted that the act expands the current college tuition waiver for active members of the Connecticut National Guard by including all mandatory fees, creating a more comprehensive education benefit for those who serve Connecticut communities at home and abroad.
NGACT remains committed to advocating for policies that strengthen the Connecticut National Guard and improve the lives of its members. The passage of Public Act 26-12 stands as a powerful example of what can be accomplished when Guard members have a strong voice at the State Capitol.
As NGACT looks ahead, the Association will continue working with state leaders to protect and expand benefits that support readiness, retention, and the long-term success of Connecticut’s military community.