Vella Legislation Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses Signed into Law

ROCKFORD, Ill. – In order to give back to veterans and ensure they have the resources they need to be successful, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, passed legislation that was signed into law that directs the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) to provide additional support and opportunities to veteran-owned businesses.

“After the many sacrifices they have made to keep us safe, it is important that we are all doing our part in giving back and making sure veterans have the support they deserve,” said Vella. “This legislation will ensure veterans have the access to the resources they need to create a successful small business.”

As part of his work to provide support to veterans, Vella sponsored Senate Bill 687, which directs CMS to increase recruitment and certification of veteran-owned businesses while also easing regulatory burdens on the businesses. The bill also requires CMS to file an annual report on their efforts to recruit and certify more veteran-owned businesses. Vella’s legislation was signed into law by Gov. Pritzker on Monday.

As a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Vella has been an advocate for veterans in Springfield. He introduced legislation that would waive license fees from local governments for new businesses started by veterans. Vella also introduced legislation that would ensure veteran-owned businesses get their fair share of government contracts.

“After a year in which many small businesses were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important we are working to get existing and prospective veterans business owners the support they need,” said Vella. “As we move forward, I will continue to work on behalf of veterans and ensure we are giving back to them by getting them the resources they have earned.”