A proposal before Congress calls for lifting the 10-year time limit for active-duty veterans to use their educational benefits under the G.I. Bill.

It's the right thing to do. The 10-year limit puts an arbitrary burden on our active-duty veterans, who face huge hurdles in re-adjusting to civilian life after dangerous duty in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The transition from military to civilian life can be a complex and wrenching one.

Often, meeting immediate financial needs must take precedence; longer-term plans, such as obtaining a college degree, have to wait.

"Just getting back on your feet after your military career takes years and soon the 10-year deadline for using the G.I. Bill has passed," Linda McGuiness, an Army veteran from Bellingham, Wash., said in written testimony to a House subcommittee.

Arguably, these veterans fought as bravely and risked as much as those in World War II. But those World War II veterans had a better deal: The original G.I. Bill covered the full cost of their education.

Today, what's now known as Montgomery G.I. Bill covers less, but expects the veteran to contribute, too.

Active-duty service members must forfeit a nonrefundable $100 per month for the first 12 months of their enlistment to become eligible for the benefits.

In return, the program pays up to $1,075 per month for a maximum of 36 months toward the cost of education.

It's still a good deal; but the 10-year time limit has hurt its effectiveness. Nearly 30 percent of veterans don't use any education benefits before they time out.

The history of the G.I. Bill has proved that continuing education for veterans has been a great investment: It has been the key to developing successful civilian careers.

Our veterans have already invested their fair share to support our country; it's time to invest more in them.