SPRINGFIELD – To protect our nation’s veterans from predatory business practices, State Senator Mike Porfirio has advanced legislation aimed at combating “claim sharks” who target veterans by offering veteran and military benefit services in exchange for financial compensation.

“Our veterans have sacrificed greatly for our country, and it is our duty to ensure they are protected from crooked practices,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This bill will not only hold claim sharks accountable, but it will also establish a framework that promotes transparency, empowering veterans with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their benefits.”

Senate Bill 3479 aims to combat claim sharks who target veterans in their deceptive business practices by ensuring transparency regarding these businesses lack of VA accreditation. Some of their predatory practices include guaranteeing an increased disability rating or percentage increase, advertising expedited VA claims decisions, requesting login credentials to access a veteran’s personal information through secure VA websites and more.

SPRINGFIELD – Military service members on active duty status who represent part of a public body – such as a village board, school district or township –may soon be allowed to attend meetings remotely, thanks to a new measure passed by State Senator Mike Porfirio.

“It is our duty to create a more inclusive and adaptable environment for all members of our community, especially those who selflessly serve in the military,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township), a member of the Navy Reserve. “This legislation reflects our commitment to ensuring service members on active duty status can participate in discussions and decisions that impact our communities and the people they have dedicated their lives to protecting.”

Currently, a majority of the members of any public body choose to allow another member to attend remotely in cases of illness, disability, employment related to the business of the public body, a family emergency or unforeseen child care obligations.

BURBANK – The Park District of La Grange and the Community Park District of La Grange Park are among the 111 recipients of Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants distributed through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, State Senator Mike Porfirio announced Friday.

“By securing this funding for our local park districts, we ensure the preservation of natural spaces and develop sanctuaries where families can gather,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “We are promoting a healthier, happier community that thrives on outdoor recreation for generations to come.”

Nearly $55 million in state grants are being awarded for 111 local park projects throughout Illinois to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities. The Park District of La Grange and the Community Park District of La Grange Park are each set to receive $600,000 through the OSLAD program.

BURBANK – State Senator Mike Porfirio and State Representative La Shawn Ford applauded the Illinois Department of Transportation’s implementation of a school speed zone on Ogden Avenue for La Grange and La Grange Park students.

“The new school speed zone serves as a testament to our commitment to protecting our younger generations,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “I commend IDOT for their quick response to our residents’ concerns and remain dedicated to investing in the safety and wellbeing of our children.”

Ogden Avenue is highly dense, narrow and congested during school days when rush hour is at its peak. Previously, there were no operating restrictions for cars, semi-trucks, emergency vehicles, construction vehicles or wide-load carriers, even with residential neighborhoods abundant right off Ogden Avenue.