Kifowit Passes Measure to Streamline Process of Obtaining Veteran ID

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Veterans would have fewer bureaucratic hoops to jump through during the process of obtaining a Veteran ID under legislation sponsored by state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, which passed the House on Friday.

“The current process to get an ID card to prove your Veteran status at businesses and other locations is both time-consuming and frustrating,” said Kifowit. “Even with all of the proper documentation, you can’t simply go to the DMV and apply for one because the paperwork needs to be certified by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.”

Kifowit’s House Bill 3216 allows the Secretary of State’s office to issue driver’s licenses or identification cards to qualified Veterans with the word “Veteran” printed on them without first requiring the Veteran to have their paperwork stamped by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. The measure will save Veterans an additional step in the process and help ensure the Secretary of State’s office is able to issue IDs in a timely manner.

“There are a variety of reasons why a Veteran would need to demonstrate proof of service, and the easiest way to do so is to include this designation on a license or ID card that they already carry with them,” said Kifowit. “My bill will help more Veterans access the services and discounts they’re entitled to, while eliminating much of the hassle.”

House Bill 3216 passed the House with bipartisan support and now moves to the Senate for consideration.