Vella Legislation Honoring Illinois National Guard Soldiers Signed into Law

ROCKFORD, Ill. – To ensure that Illinois National Guard soldiers are given the recognition and respect they deserve, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, passed legislation providing an Illinois State flag to the next of kin of Illinois National Guard soldiers who die while on active state duty.

“The Illinois National Guard plays a critical role in keeping our communities safe, whether it’s through supporting local law enforcement, helping after a natural disaster, or any other task that they can assist with,” said Vella. “Illinois National Guard soldiers put their lives on the line to keep us safe. If they make the ultimate sacrifice and are killed in the line of duty, it is our responsibility to ensure we honor and thank them for their service to our state.”

Vella was the House sponsor of Senate Bill 505, which was signed into law by Gov. Pritzker last Sunday. Vella, who serves on both the Police & Fire Committee and Veterans’ Affairs Committee in the House, has worked to support those who keep our community safe. This session, he passed legislation protecting the retirement of law enforcement officers. He also introduced legislation that would waive municipal licenses fees for veteran-owned businesses.

“It is important that we are giving back to those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect our community,” said Vella. “I would like to thank Gov. Pritzker for signing this legislation, and I look forward to continuing to work in Springfield to ensure we are providing support to those who keep us safe.”