The CBO has issued a cost estimate for S. 342, the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act of 2026, projecting a net cost of $127 million over the 2026-2036 fiscal period. This estimate reflects the budgetary impact of expanding education benefits to Purple Heart recipients. The document was prepared in response to the bill being ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

This CBO cost estimate does not impose compliance obligations on regulated entities. It is an informational document for Congressional use in evaluating legislation. Educational institutions and government agencies tracking veterans education benefits should monitor the legislative progress of S. 342 through the 119th Congress.