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Health & Fitness

Kifowit-Supported Laws to Increase Job Opportunities for Veterans Takes Effect

In an effort to assist veterans, particularly as they return from service and are in need of jobs, state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, helped pass two pieces of legislation to help former service members find civilian work and take effect on Jan. 1.

“As a former United States Marine, I share a common bond with those who have served in the armed forces,” Kifowit said. “It is important to me that we assist fellow veterans by supporting legislation that makes it easier for them to find employment after they return home.”                                                   

Kifowit voted for House Bill 2563, which waives the driver’s skills test needed to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for veterans who received the same training and drove commercial vehicles in the military. Subject to federal requirements and verification to ensure safety, this new law would eliminate the cost and training that is needed to obtain a CDL.

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Kifowit also supported House Bill 3186, which requires the Illinois Department of Public Health to recognize emergency medical technician (EMT) training that service members complete during their military service. When applying for their EMT license, veterans will now be able to use previous training to meet state requirements.

“These laws will allow veterans to apply the skills they learned from their time in the military to their employment search once their service has ended,” Kifowit said. “I will continue to be an advocate for veterans in our community and across Illinois by supporting common-sense legislative solutions as well as providing resources for local veterans.”

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For more information, please contact Rep. Kifowit’s constituent service office at 630-585-1308 or email Stephanie.Kifowit@att.net

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