Metro East Sun

State Representative Kevin Schmidt has highlighted his legislative efforts aimed at improving the lives of veterans in Illinois. In a recent statement, he outlined several bills he has worked on since taking office two years ago.

Schmidt noted his involvement in passing legislation to protect veterans from scams (SB 3479), enhance hiring processes for sheriff’s offices to employ veterans (SB 2778), and remove barriers for disabled veterans seeking home improvements (SB 2751).

Despite these initiatives, Schmidt acknowledged that more work remains. He has proposed additional measures, including legislation to grant veterans a paid day off on Veteran's Day (HB 4128), waive vehicle registration fees for active-duty military personnel (HB 1563), and establish a Veterans’ Licensure and Workforce Task Force (HB 1217).

However, Schmidt expressed dissatisfaction with the current state budget. He criticized it for not providing direct property tax relief for veterans while allocating significant funds toward healthcare for migrants. "This budget fails Illinois veterans," he stated.

Schmidt contrasted his priorities with those of Democrats in Springfield, whom he accused of prioritizing pay raises and spending on migrants over veteran services. "Our veterans have given so much of their life for us, and the least we can do is make sure they’re taken care of at home," he said.

He also invited constituents to share ideas for new legislation by contacting his office.