TITLE 3: HUMAN RESOURCES DIVISION 1: EDUCATION
§ 1371
§ 1371. Definitions. (a) “Eligible veteran” means a CNMI resident who was an active member of the United States military, who served in active federal service, under either Title 10 or Title 32 of the United States Code and is certified to have at least 30 percent disability as a result of serving in active military service, and if discharged from service, has received an honorable discharge. (b) “CNMI resident” means a person residing in the CNMI who is classified as a resident for tuition-paying purposes based on the definitions of a resident student established by NMC Policy No. 4001 Residency Classification. Source: PL 22-16, § 2(101) (Apr. 13, 2022), modified. Commission Comment: Legislative Findings of 2022 Legislation.— In addition to severability and savings clause provisions, PL 22-16 included the following Findings and Purpose section: Section 1. Findings and Purpose. The Legislature acknowledges the sacrifices made by veterans on battlefields, on the sea and air, and every other place where their contributions have allowed us to live free. They deserve the recognition and appreciation, and they should be accorded certain benefits for their sacrifices. The Legislature finds that numerous states provide several benefits for veterans. The State of California provides two separate tax exemptions; one for veterans and one for disabled veterans. California also waives motor vehicle registration fees and free license plates for one passenger motor vehicle, or one motorcycle, or one commercial motor vehicle of less than 8001 unladen weight. It also provides reduced annual fishing and hunting licenses to any veteran with a 50 percent or greater service-connected disability. The legislature finds that active military veterans, reserve military called to active duty have served their country and have risked their lives to defend the lives of all Americans and the freedoms that define and distinguish our nation. The legislature intends to honor active military veterans who have served on active military for the public service they have provided to our mother country. The Legislature finds that the Commonwealth should extend certain benefits to veterans who have served our country and have returned home. Some of these veterans may plan to pursue a change in career that may require postsecondary education that leads to a college degree. The purpose of this Act is to waive the tuition imposed by the Northern Marianas College for qualified veterans who have been certified to have 30 percent or greater service-connected disability. Modifications.— In codifying PL 22-16, the Commission numbered this section and standardized subsection designations, pursuant to 1 CMC § 3806(a).