CAPITOL HILL (AP) -- Congressional Democrats are pushing for a big boost in college aid for military veterans -- possibly the biggest since World War II.

The plan would essentially guarantee a full-ride scholarship to any in-state public university, along with a monthly housing stipend, for individuals who serve the military for at least three years.

The proposal would give veterans 15 years to use the benefit, instead of the current 10-year limit, and would set up a new government program that matches financial aid by more expensive private institutions.

The new GI benefits plan has Republicans -- and even fiscally conservative Democrats -- balking at the cost, estimated by the Congressional Budget Office at nearly 52 billion dollars over 10 years.

President Bush has indicated he supports a modest expansion of GI benefits. But congressional Democrats aren't likely to back down. They're looking to put Republican lawmakers on the spot this election year.

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