Victory for North Dakota RPCVS
North Dakota has become the latest state – following recent, similar victories in Maryland and Colorado – to pass legislation allowing Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) to receive in-state tuition when attending state graduate schools.
Governor Kelly Armstrong signed the legislation (HB 1529) into law on March 25, 2025, after it was passed unanimously in the North Dakota House (on February 11) and Senate (March 12).
In-state tuition legislation passes in the North Dakota State Senate
Public Testimony
The legislation was introduced by State Representative Mary Schneider of Fargo. As she presented the legislation at a hearing before the State Senate Education Committee, Representative Schneider said one of the many reasons this legislation would benefit North Dakota is the potential for RPCVs to bring community and economic growth to the state.
A February hearing before the State House Agriculture Committee included testimony from two North Dakota RPCVs.
Holly Triska-Dally (Nicaragua 2004-06), a life-long resident of North Dakota, serves as the state’s refugee coordinator. She said the skills she gained in the Peace Corps propelled her forward in her academic and professional career. She called Peace Corps training “world class.”
Also testifying was Heather May (China 2013-16), an Ohio resident who moved to North Dakota to pursue further education following her Peace Corps service. She told the committee that Peace Corps services prepares RPCVs for future challenges.
Heather May’s testimony before the North Dakota House Agriculture Committee
NPCA Testimony
National Peace Corps Association submitted written testimony in support of HB 1529.
Community Driven
Testimony was also submitted by Sarah LaBounty (Romania 2011-13) of the Colorado RPCVs, who was the catalyst behind the 2023 in-state tuition law in that state.
The catalyst for this legislative victory in was Lois Schneider (India 1968-70), a life-long resident of North Dakota who said in her written testimony, “This bill is more than just a financial incentive for returning Peace Corps volunteers; it is a strategic opportunity to attract civic-minded individuals who embody the values of service, resilience, and global perspective to North Dakota”.
Contact NPCA’s advocacy program for more information about possibilities to advance Peace Corps related legislation at the state/local level.