Authority: Title 2.2, Chapter 20; Chapter 24, Article 18; Title 2.2, Chapter 26, Article 28; Title 2.2, Chapter 27, Article 6, Code of Virginia.

A. Notwithstanding § 23-7.4:1, Code of Virginia, the Department shall provide institutions of higher education with the information these schools need to administer the Virginia War Orphans Education Program. The Department shall retain the responsibility to certify the eligibility of those who apply for financial aid under this program.

B. No child may receive the education benefits provided by § 23-7.4:1, Code of Virginia, and funded by this or similar state appropriations, for more than four years.

C. Out of this appropriation, $137,659 the first year and $150,176 the second year from the general fund is provided to add positions at four field offices, one each in Big Stone Gap, Cedar Bluff, Wytheville, and Charlottesville.  The amounts provided shall not be used to support any function other than the direct provision of claims assistance to veterans.

D.  Out of this appropriation, $424,258 the second year from the general fund is provided for an additional six positions to be allocated to the department's field offices.  The amounts provided shall not be used to support any function other than the direct provision of claims assistance to veterans.

E. Out of this appropriation, $20,000 the second year from the general fund will be dedicated to a training program for the benefits coordinators.