Lottery, Scholarships and Programs - As introduced, expands eligibility for a helping heroes grant to include veterans who have received any medal authorized by congress for the armed forces of the United States that is awarded for combat or heroism; allows eligible veterans to receive a helping heroes grant in pursuit of a certificate at an eligible postsecondary institution. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 4.

SB 1188 expands Tennessee's "Helping Heroes Grant" to include veterans who received any U.S. combat or heroism medal authorized by Congress, broadening eligibility beyond previous criteria. It allows these veterans to use the grant for certificate programs at eligible colleges or universities, not just degree programs. The bill removes prior restrictions requiring recipients to pursue associate or bachelor's degrees, instead explicitly permitting certificate training. This change applies to the 2025-2026 academic year and future terms.