Halpin Works to Expand Veterans’ Benefits to Include Military Families

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Spouses and children of active-duty service members members and veterans would be eligible for the military discount on purchases including clothing, auto parts and other essentials under legislation sponsored by state Rep Mike Halpin, D-Rock Island.

“We offer veterans a discount program in part to promote their families’ wellbeing as a recognition of their sacrifice. It’s time we recognize the sacrifices military families make as well,” Halpin said. “Service members’ spouses and children should be able to access their loved one’s discount, especially when their husband or wife is serving overseas.”

Halpin is supporting Senate Bill 1468 so that military families can take advantage of the Veterans and Military Personnel Discount Program, which offers discounts on a wide-range of products for service members who show a military ID. Currently, the veteran has to be present to receive the discount; however, this bill would allow dependents and spouses to use the program if they have the ID of their related service 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.  

Growing this program is just part of Halpin’s work to increase statewide assistance for veterans. He has pushed for greater funding for veteran education and job training, more robust mental health care and expanded tax benefits for military families.

“Veterans and their families deserve our gratitude and our assistance,” Halpin said. “They should not have to jump through hoops to receive that assistance. The least we can do is to make it easier for military households to use the benefits we provide.”