Committee unanimously backs expanding Georgia Military Service Scholarships at University of North Georgia

Representative Bonner presented House Bill 1328, which seeks to increase the number and flexibility of Georgia Military Service Scholarships at the University of North Georgia, a congressionally designated senior military college that integrates closely with the Georgia National Guard.

President Shannon and military-affiliated campus leaders described the program’s role in commissioning officers and supporting service-minded students who otherwise might not afford college. President Shannon noted North Georgia’s distinctive integration with the Georgia National Guard and cited high commissioning rates: "We commissioned 60% of the Georgia National Guard's officers," and highlighted alumni in high command. Captain Trevor Hullbrooks offered personal testimony: "When recruiters from the Army National Guard introduced me to the Georgia Military Service Scholarship, it opened a door that otherwise would have remained closed. Because of that opportunity, I attended the University of North Georgia, commissioned it as an officer in 2016, and began service in the Georgia Army National Guard."

Committee members asked about nomination processes and allocation per congressional district (the bill would set a not-less-than-six and not-more-than-10 nomination range per district and would increase the number of slots overall). President Shannon and recruiting officers said applicant interest fluctuates by district but that a waiting list exists and the program often exceeds available allocations.

Senator Payne moved a do-pass recommendation, Senator Howard seconded, and the committee recorded a unanimous vote to recommend the bill.

The committee also heard testimony from Lieutenant Colonel Brandon Knots and other recruiting officials who described the program’s positive impact on first-generation and low-income students.

The committee’s do-pass recommendation advances the bill to the next stage of consideration.