West Montgomery Times

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) aimed at reducing educational challenges for children of National Guard and Reserve members has received final legislative approval. The House of Representatives approved Senate Bill 209 today, following its unanimous approval by the Senate in June.

Military families often face frequent reassignments, which can create educational difficulties for children transitioning between schools in different states. Senate Bill 209 extends the same assistance provided to children of active-duty military families under the Military Interstate Children’s Compact to those of National Guard and Reserve members. The compact offers a consistent set of policies designed to ease school enrollment, participation in extracurricular activities, and meeting graduation requirements for military children.

“I raised young children during my military service and know firsthand the challenges military families can face,” Pennycuick stated. “Military families often move, and children of National Guard and Reserve members can have a difficult time adjusting to new schools and new rules. By extending the benefits of the Military Interstate Children’s Compact, we will minimize educational disruption and help these families make the challenge of relocating a little less stressful.”

Pennycuick, a U.S. Army combat veteran, was appointed to the State Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children in 2023.

The bill now awaits the governor's signature.

Contact: Matt Szuchyt