Representative Mannion (NY-22) Introduces Bipartisan Bill to End Transcript Withholding for Veterans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) today introduced the End Transcript Withholding for Veterans Act, bipartisan legislation that prohibits colleges, universities, and vocational programs from withholding transcripts from veterans who use GI Bill benefits. 

The End Transcript Withholding for Veterans Act ensures that no institution receiving GI Bill funds can block veterans from accessing their transcripts. This change removes a barrier that has unfairly kept veterans from building the careers and futures they deserve. 

Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) said, “Veterans who have earned their GI Bill benefits deserve every pathway to college and career—not barriers caused by mistakes or unfair policies. As a teacher for almost thirty years, I know how important access to transcripts is for students working to advance their education, transfer schools, or secure a good job. The End Transcript Withholding for Veterans Act will finally put a stop to these harmful policies and ensure veterans receive the full educational benefits they were promised.” 

Under current law, institutions that receive GI Bill funds can still use transcript withholding as a debt collection tool, even though federal regulations already limit the practice for students who rely on Title IV aid. Due to this gap in the law, some student veterans are left with “stranded credits,” making it harder to finish their degrees, pursue advanced training, or enter the workforce. 

The bill is co-led by Congressman James Moylan (R-Guam), a fellow member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.  

Representative James Moylan said, “Our veterans have earned their GI Bill benefits through service and sacrifice, and should never face bureaucratic hurdles to access their academic records. This bill closes a gap in federal law, aligns protections with Title IV students, and ensures a consistent path forward. It’s about fairness, dignity, and keeping our promise to those who’ve served.” 

The legislation is supported by the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University and Veterans Education Success. IVMF offers community support, entrepreneurship, higher education, and employment services to veterans, service members, and their spouses. The IVMF is recognized as a leading institution dedicated to supporting veterans and helping them thrive after their military service.

William Hubbard, Veterans Education Success Vice President for Veterans & Military Policy said, “For too long, colleges have held veterans’ transcripts hostage over disputed or even erroneous debts, blocking their path to jobs, further education, and military advancement. This bill rightly ensures that no veteran who has earned post-9/11 GI Bill benefits will be denied the proof of their hard work and achievement simply because of an institutional balance.” 

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