Military Spouses Could Get Certification Aid

Apr. 2--Military spouses would be eligible for as much as $500 in federal reimbursement for professional certifications if a bill introduced last week by U.S. Rep. Kathy Dahlkemper passes.

The tax credit would apply to spouses who had to move across state lines because their husband or wife was transferred to another base. Each state has its own regulations for certifying professionals such as teachers and architects, and the certification needed to work in each state can cost hundreds of dollars, said Dahlkemper, D-Erie.

A constituent in the military brought the issue to Dahlkemper's attention, she said.

"The best ideas in Congress don't come from within the walls of the Capitol. They come from the people we represent," Dahlkemper said.

As many as 60,000 people could apply for the credit, Dahlkemper said, based on how many took advantage of previous pilot programs for military spouses with professional careers. The Congressional Budget Office has not yet estimated how much the legislation would cost.

Dahlkemper said the FBI is looking for patterns among threatening letters sent to her and other Democrats in Congress who supported President Obama's health care bill. Dahlkemper declined to elaborate on or release the letter, which was sent to her after the March 21 vote.