The impact of the sequester and mandatory-spending cuts continues to draw closer for many Americans. Among those being affected, 200,000 soldiers who are pursuing degrees.
Since the 1940's the government has provided tuition assistance for military members.
Lieutenant Colonel Joel Stephenson says, "Like I used federal tuition assistance 6-7 years ago when I when to graduate school on my own time."
But because of the budget squeeze, as of last week, Lieutenant Colonel Joel Stephenson says soldiers will no longer get that assistance.
Stephenson says, "So they are essentially going to be out 4500 dollars annually...almost all of those cadets, at least ours have already applied for federal tuition assistance before the march 8th deadline.
Which means anyone currently enrolled will get to complete their courses; however, as of now, they won't get any assistance for future schooling.
Last year, the Army spent $373 million on the program, $4.5 million was sent to Minnesota service members.
Stephenson says, "There the type of student, the type of person you want to invest in because they have a lot of skills and they have a lot of commitment."
Stephenson says the students won't be the only ones impacted; the assistance program is also a key recruiting tool.
Stephenson says, "Hopefully this is something that doesn't last because you see the benefit, you certainly do see the benefit."
The Army released a statement last week saying "The Army understands the impacts of this action and will re-evaluate should the budgetary situation improve."
Stephenson says he hopes things improve sooner rather than later.
Stephenson says, "If the suspension isn't lifted before the start of next academic year it will affect everybody."
The G. I. Bill program is not affected by this decision. State aid and other private and public funds available to soldiers can also be used.
