Connor Backs Legislation Supporting Military Members and their Families, Promotes Appreciation Month

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. John Connor, D-Lockport, is recognizing our servicemembers and their loved ones during Military Family Appreciation Month by highlighting new efforts to support members of the armed forces and their families.

“As Military Family Appreciation Month draws to a close, it’s important that we recognize the huge contributions made not only by brave servicemembers who fight to keep us safe, but by their families,” Connor said. “Families provide emotional and financial support to military members; often while unsure if their loved one is in harm’s way. Veterans need the same aid, potentially more if they are dealing with the physical toll taken by combat. I will continue to work to ensure that families don’t have to provide that alone, and that everyone sacrificing for their country gets the help they deserve.”

Connor has aggressively pursued legislation to benefit veterans and their families. These bills include Senate Bill 1468, which allows families to take advantage of the Veterans and Military Personnel Discount Program to receive discounts on a wide-range of important products. He has also helped pass House Bill 3424 which creates the Veterans’ Disability Compensation Task Force to evaluate Illinois’ disability compensation system and to investigate the outbreak of Legionnaires at the Quincy VA home. Finally, Connor pushed for House Bill 120, which creates the Veterans Service-Related Ailments Task Force to generate new solutions to help with the physical problems veterans face as a result of their service time.

“I’m proud of the progress we have made to help support to military families and veterans, but there is a long way to go,” Connor said. “Members of the armed forces and their loved ones give a lot to their country, and we owe them a debt of gratitude. I encourage everyone to take time to appreciate that contribution however they can.”