Kifowit Sponsors Plan to Extend Military Discounts to Family Members

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Spouses and dependents of active-duty service members would be eligible for the military discount on purchases including clothing, auto parts and other essentials under legislation sponsored by state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego.

“Military families make sacrifices every day to support their loved ones in uniform, including frequent moves and holidays spent apart,” said Kifowit. “This legislation is one way we can show our support for them.”

Kifowit is sponsoring Senate Bill 1468, which allows spouses and children with a valid military dependent ID card to benefit from the Veterans’ and Military Personnel Discount Program, even when they are not accompanied by their active-duty family member. Retailers across the state voluntarily participate in the discount program, which offers significant savings on both routine and major purchases – ranging from discounts at Advanced Auto Parts, Old Navy and Nike stores, to a $500 cash rebate on the purchase of a new Ford car or truck.  

“Service members’ spouses and children should still be able to utilize military discounts during deployments and long periods apart,” said Kifowit. “By extending this program to eligible family members, we’re not only expressing our gratitude for the sacrifices they make year-round, but also helping them save money in the long run.”