Vella Supports Legislation Prioritizing Jobs for Veterans

ROCKFORD, Ill. – To ensure that there are ample employment opportunities available to veterans, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, voted in favor of legislation that would give an advantage to veterans seeking employment for certain state jobs.

“Veterans have put their lives on the line to defend our community, and it is important that we give back and help them to succeed at home,” said Vella. “It is critical that we are providing ample opportunities to veterans, and this legislation is a good step towards that goal.”

Currently, public works undertaken or contracted by the state have veteran preference provisions. In order to expand on those provisions, Vella is a co-sponsor of House Bill 3716, which passed with bipartisan support and would direct the “Snowbird” program to prioritize veteran employment. The program offers seasonal employment from October to April in order to maintain roads, bridges, and other structures.

As a member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Vella has been an advocate for veterans. He introduced legislation that would waive municipal licenses fees for veteran-owned businesses. Vella also supported legislation that would crack down on those looking to scam veterans into paying for services they could receive for free.

“After a year in which many, including veterans, struggled to stay afloat, we must work to create opportunities for as many people as possible,” said Vella. “I will continue to work to explore other ways to get veterans the resources they need to continue serving their communities.”