DES MOINES, Iowa—The Iowa National Guard proudly announces the passage and signing
of two critical pieces of legislation—House Files 117 and 118—championed by the Iowa
National Guard. This legislation, signed into law last Friday by Governor Kim Reynolds, with
unanimous support from the Iowa Legislature, reinforces Iowa’s long-standing commitment to supporting its citizen-Soldiers and Airmen.
The new laws expand the Iowa National Guard Service Scholarship (INGSS) program, an
enduring education benefit that for more than 25 years has helped launch the military and
civilian careers of thousands of Iowans. In an era where readiness and resilience are paramount, these enhancements will help the Iowa National Guard attract, recruit, and retain the best talent to meet the growing and evolving demands of both state and national defense.
“Our Soldiers and Airmen are among the finest in the nation—leaders who bring pride and
recognition to Iowa through their excellence,” said Maj. Gen. Stephen E. Osborn, Adjutant
General of the Iowa National Guard. “These legislative measures ensure that our force remains strong, competitive, and ready to meet the challenges ahead.”
Key enhancements include:
HF 117: Expands access to the INGSS program to include short-term credentialing and
certificate programs for drill-status Army and Air National Guard personnel. This change
allows the Adjutant General of Iowa to prioritize funding in critical technical fields— such as avionics, cybersecurity, and IT—and trades —such as electronics and welding offered through Iowa’s community colleges, universities, and accredited private institutions. This provides recruits and current members with flexible, high-impact educational pathways beyond traditional degrees.
View the enrolled legislation here: HF 117
HF 118: Designates federal military tuition assistance (MilTA) as the first source of funding, making INGSS the “last dollar in” without reducing payments to Iowa’s postsecondary institutions. This ensures full tuition and fee coverage for eligible Guard members while maximizing the use of all available educational funding.
View the enrolled legislation here: HF 118
These strategic changes strengthen Iowa’s workforce capacity by equipping Guard members
with academic and technical credentials that align with high-demand career fields—both during their service and well beyond. Iowa’s steadfast commitment to the INGSS program continues to yield a highly educated, skilled, and employable talent pool, delivering long-term dividends to the state’s economy.
“The Iowa National Guard is composed of Iowans who live, work, and serve here,” added Gen. Osborn. “This scholarship is a smart, long-term investment in our state’s future—fostering leadership, education, and career readiness in our communities. We are thankful to our state leaders for their unwavering support.”
Pictured: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signs into law enhancements to the Iowa National Guard Service Scholarship program. She was joined by Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn, Adjutant General of Iowa; Iowa National Guard leadership; service members receiving the scholarship; higher education stakeholders; and Department of Defense representatives. Also pictured are State Sen. Kerry Gruenhagen, of Walcott, and State Rep. Eddie Andrews, of Johnston.
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