One of the country's largest vocational schools for animal trainers and veterinary technicians, among others involved in animal care and services, has sued the federal government, accusing the Department of Defense of allegedly wrongly misclassifying their training programs as "continuing education" ineligible for tuition assistance for military spouses.
Animal Behavior College (ABC) said since 2009, it has provided training to more than 7,000 military spouses, "and to other students, who are pursuing training to expand their employment and portable career opportunities." ABC said the training is particularly vital for such spouses, who often struggle to maintain a career due to frequent relocations and family responsibilities
The complaint notes that a 2021 survey by the DoD confirmed these challenges, revealing that military spouse unemployment was at 21% - more than five times the national rate.
According to the complaint, military spouses have typically paid for training through ABC through programs like My Career Advancement Account program (MyCAA), which provides up to $4,000 in tuition assistance. The lawsuit notes that according to a 2019 audit by the U.S. Government Accountability Office, MyCAA has been historically under-utilized.
However, in 2023, the lawsuit asserts the DoD abruptly reclassified ABC's programs as "continuing education," thus making their programs ineligible for funding through the MyCAA program.
ABC alleges this decision was incorrect and improper, and requests a court order directing the DoD to restore its eligibility for MyCAA funding.
"With each passing week, an increasing number of spouses and their families are harmed by their inability to enroll in the ABC Programs through MyCAA," ABC said in its complaint.
They are also seeking an award of attorney fees.
ABC is represented in the case by attorneys Jack P. Lipton, Albert Tong and Kate S. Im, of Burke, Williams & Sorensen, of Los Angeles.