Big news for Buckeye fans not living in Ohio -- you're now considered a state resident.

Last week Gov. Ted Strickland signed an executive order allowing all out-of-state veterans coming to Ohio for college to qualify for the in-state tuition rate as "honorary Ohioans." That means that, starting next fall, any veteran who wants to attend a public school in the state can use their GI bill for a free four-year ride, regardless where they actually live.

That's a big deal, considering the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition at Ohio State last year was almost $13,000. Instead of having to take out loans to make up the difference, state officials are essentially waiving that extra money, provided you qualify for the new GI Bill.

Officials from the governor's office said the move is partially to thank veterans for their service, but also because they're convinced the hard-working college students will become hard-working Ohio residents after their time in school.

State education officials and lawmakers must still hammer out some details about transferability and eligibility of spouses or children using the GI bill benefits, and whether they'll qualify as in-state too. But that won't be an issue until fall 2009, when those provisions kick in.

For vets going to school this fall, it's a immediate big break in those tuition bills.

And a spokesman for the governor's office said even Michigan fans qualify under the new plan. No word who they'll have to root for once football season starts, though.

I don't know of any other states considering such a move right now, but if I hear of any I'll post the information on this mailbag.