New law shielding veterans from deceptive practices takes effect Jan. 1

• SB 3479
• veteran benefits
• deceptive practices
• new law

SPRINGFIELD – Beginning Jan. 1, veterans will be better protected from fraudulent schemes targeting their benefits, thanks to a new law spearheaded by State Senator Mike Porfirio and State Representative Stephanie Kifowit. 

“Our veterans have selflessly served our country, and it’s our moral obligation to ensure their benefits are safeguarded from exploitation,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township), a U.S. Navy veteran. “This law helps protect veterans from bad actors and reinforces the respect and support they’ve earned through their dedicated service.”

Many unaccredited businesses prey on veterans by offering misleading promises, such as guaranteeing higher disability ratings and promising faster VA claim decisions, or requesting sensitive login credentials to access secure VA websites. These practices often leave veterans vulnerable to fraud and misinformation.

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Porfirio and Veteran Suicide Prevention Council to combat veteran suicide epidemic

BURBANK – With Veterans Day approaching, State Senator Mike Porfirio is reinforcing his commitment to combating the veteran suicide epidemic – which claims an estimated 17 lives per day – and is eager for the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Program Advisory Council to begin its critical work. 

“As a member of this advisory council, I’m honored to collaborate with dedicated people to confront the national emergency of veteran suicide,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “We have a unique opportunity to deliver new solutions, and I’m committed to ensuring we approach this mission with urgency and purpose.”

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Porfirio releases statement on islamophobia

Our society has no room for harmful rhetoric that targets and marginalizes Muslim and Arab communities. We must reject islamophobia in all its forms, as it only serves to divide us. Elected officials must lead by example and use their platform to protect the values we cherish, including dignity and respect for all. It is our duty to continue working together to confront harmful stereotypes and build communities rooted in understanding and acceptance.

Porfirio commends over $6,000 library grant coming to North Riverside Public Library District

BURBANK – State Senator Mike Porfirio recently announced a total of $6,967 has been granted to North Riverside Public Library District’s Project Next Generation.

“Support like this helps our libraries remain a cornerstone of learning and connection,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This funding will ensure the North Riverside Public Library will be able to maintain essential services so many in our community rely on.”

The grants were awarded by Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias, who has awarded nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million for literacy programs throughout the state.

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