Along with the full tuition waiver for the immediate family of those killed in action, Sen. Scott McCoy, D-Salt Lake, wants to give a 50 percent reduction to the dependents of disabled veterans, which would complement a Hughes-sponsored bill passed during the past general session, which gave tuition waivers to Purple Heart recipients. McCoy intends to seek an appropriation to cover the costs of the waiver, which he hopes will get the support of higher education officials who already struggle with funding 15 other waivers.

"It's an investment in people and the work force of the future," McCoy said in a telephone interview following the news conference. "We want to make sure that these families can continue contributing to society."

Along with McCoy's bill, Democrats announced the formation of the Utah State Democratic Veterans and Military Families Caucus to provide an opportunity for the public and decisionmakers to talk about cuts in veterans' benefits spending and other issues.

"This day, we join together for a noble purpose: to champion the cause of veterans by honoring their sacrifices and dedicating our talents to this endeavor," said Larry Daniel, chairman of the Iron County Democratic Party and a veteran of the first Gulf War.

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