Vella-Supported Bill to Crack Down on Scams Targeting Veterans

ROCKFORD, Ill. – State Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, is backing legislation that would warn veterans if they are paying for a service they could receive for free from other sources.

“Veterans are entitled to a number of different services, but unfortunately not every veteran has the information available to them to know what they qualify for,” said Vella. “Some individuals and organizations take advantage of this by selling services to veterans who unknowingly pay for services they can receive for free. This is a scam targeting those who put everything on the line to protect us, and we must help our veterans by ending these practices.”

Vella is co-sponsoring House Bill 3865, which would require companies advertising services to veterans to disclose on the advertisement if the service is offered for free by veterans’ groups and organizations. The bill also imposes penalties on those who target veterans with deceptive service practices.

Vella, who is on the Veterans Affair Committee, has worked to support veterans since entering the General Assembly earlier this year. This session, he introduced legislation to help increase recruitment and certification of veteran-owned businesses. Vella also pushed for legislation that would waive county and municipal license fees for new businesses started by qualified veterans.

“Finding ways to support our veterans is the least we can do given the many sacrifices they made to keep us safe,” said Vella. “Whether it’s helping veterans succeed or protecting them from scams, I will continue to search for ways to address the problems our veterans face and get them the resources they deserve.”