In the News
KFVS12 County News, December 19, 2011
Gov. Quinn signs laws that improves job access, health insurance for veterans
(KFVS) - Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation Monday that will improve the quality of life for Illinois' veterans.
Senate Bill 1587, sponsored by Sen. Antonio Munoz (D-Chicago) and Rep. Edward Acevedo (D-Chicago), and Senate Bill 40, sponsored by Sen. Susan Garrett (D-Highwood) and Rep. Lisa Dugan (D-Kankakee), make it easier for veterans to access employment and health care.
“The men and women who have courageously defended our democracy overseas should not return home only to fight for necessities like jobs and health insurance,” said Governor Quinn. “We owe it to our Veterans to make their transition to civilian life as seamless as possible.”
Senate Bill 1587 makes it easier for veterans to become members of the Illinois State Police. Gov. Quinn's office says under the law, education requirements will be waived for individuals who have honorably discharged with a campaign medal after serving in Afghanistan or Iraq. They said on average, a service member serves three to four years before being discharged, and that experience makes veterans particularly valuable assets to the ISP.
"Having been a Veteran who returned home and found limited job opportunities, I applaud the efforts of Governor Quinn and the state legislators to improve the quality of life for soldiers seeking to further their careers to serve and protect,” said Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau. “This law will give Veterans every opportunity to apply and test within our department, and will significantly increase the pool of qualified, experienced candidates representing the Illinois State Police.”
Gov. Quinn also signed Senate Bill 40, which extends the Veterans' Care program. The program provides veterans with comprehensive health care coverage for $40 or $70 per month, depending on income. The program has been set to expire on Jan. 1.
“Employment and the availability affordable of health care are among the most critical needs of the Illinois veteran community,” said Erica Borggren, Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “These measures will have an immediate, direct impact for Illinois’ past and present heroes in uniform.”
Gov. Quinn's office says the law also helps members of the Illinois National Guard receive compensation more quickly when responding to in-state natural disasters. Under the law, the Illinois National Guard State Active Duty Fund will be created to more efficiently reimburse Guard members called to active duty in the event of state disasters.
For more information about these and other programs for Veterans, visit www.operationhomefront.orgor call the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs at (217) 782-6641 or (312) 814-2460.
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