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Health & Fitness

House Unanimously Approves McAuliffe Measure to Provide Relief for Veterans' Families

Springfield, IL...  The Illinois House unanimously approved a measure sponsored by State Representative Michael McAuliffe (R-Chicago) yesterday that would provide support for families and loved ones who are laying to rest United States War Veterans by limiting the amount cemeteries can charge for placing special veteran headstones, medallions or memorial markers.

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a special government headstone or markers for eligible veterans and active duty members at no charge; however, arrangements for placing it in a private cemetery and all setting fees are at private expense. 

“Under existing Illinois law, there are no limits on the amount cemeteries can charge families for the placement of these special military designations,” explained Rep. McAuliffe, who also pointed out that the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs will pay up to $100.00 for the setting of such marker.

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House Bill 4598 would require the price of placing special headstones or memorial markers provided for eligible veterans by the United States Government to not exceed $500. Rep. McAuliffe said neither veterans nor their families should be charged an excessive fee for their placement.

“These families and loved ones of our fallen Armed Forces members should not be overcharged for the placement of this free headstone from the federal government,” said Rep. McAuliffe. “This is one small way to let the families of our heroes know that their sacrifice is not forgotten.”

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House Bill 4598 was approved by the Illinois House of Representatives on Monday, April 7, 2014, and now moves onto the Illinois Senate for further consideration. For more information, please contact State Rep. Michael McAuliffe at (773) 444-0611.

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