Created: 5/15/2009 4:07:23 PM 
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Travis Nelson is busy doing his homework checking out what is called the Post 9/11 GI Bill.
Nelson, who served eight years in the Navy, is making the transition from the military to the classroom. The 26-year-old veteran is eying building construction classes at Florida Community College.
"Well, they offer a $1,000 a year for the books," said Nelson, who is already crunching the numbers and comparing benefits.
The new GI Bill affords a different benefit package to veterans whose active duty started after September 11, 2001. The key elements are: full tuition and fees, monthly housing stipend and $1,000 a year for books and supplies.
Nelson said in his case, the new program affords him almost $4,000 more in benefits annually when compared to the current plan afforded to veterans.
The new GI Bill kicks in August 1. Currently in Florida, 17,000 veterans are enrolled in state schools.
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