November 2. 2007

Springfield … State Representative Dennis Reboletti (R-Elmhurst) co-sponsored legislation that would stop Governor Blagojevich from raiding the Illinois Veterans Assistance Fund to finance his new programs and policies.

“Once again, Governor Blagojevich is circumventing the legislative branch to grab state funds for one of his new programs. The Illinois Veterans Assistance Fund was established to assist veterans in five different areas: post traumatic stress disorder, homelessness, health insurance costs, long-term care and disability benefits,” Reboletti said. “We made a promise to veterans that we would try to help them in all aspects of their life and not just focus on one area.”

The Illinois Veterans Assistance Fund receives money through the veteran’s scratch off lottery ticket proceeds. The Governor had proposed to use the majority of this fund to pay for his newly created Veterans Care “pilot” program. Lt. Governor Pat Quinn, IL Veterans Affair Director Tammy Duckworth along with the VFW opposed the Governor’s raid.

Reboletti said House Bill 1539 would mandate that no more than 20% of this fund is allowed to be spent on health insurance. In addition, this bill creates a three member board to determine the allocation of the money from the Veterans Assistance Fund. The members would be appointed to the board by the Director of Veterans Affairs.

“I am extremely grateful for the service our veterans have given to their country. It’s important that the state give back to these veterans and provide the necessary service to assist them,” Reboletti said.

Additional questions can be directed to Reboletti’s office at (630) 530-2730.

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