Illinois State representative Stephanie Kifowit (D-Oswego) has been awarded the 2024 Legislator of the Year Award by the Illinois Association of County Veterans Assistance Commissions (IACVAC). The award was presented during IACVAC’s Banquet Awards Ceremony in East Peoria, Illinois. The prestigious award recognizes her unwavering dedication to advocating for Illinois Veterans in the Illinois General Assembly.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” said Kifowit. “As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Blue Star Mom with a son currently serving overseas in the U.S. Navy, advocating for the rights and well-being of servicemembers and their families is personal to me. This year, we passed several important measures that will provide real benefits, from property tax exemptions for disabled Veterans to improved recognition of the Space Force. My commitment to our veterans will never waver, and I am proud to work alongside organizations like the IACVAC to serve those who served our country.”
“Representative Kifowit has been a tireless advocate for veterans throughout her time in office,” said president of the IACVAC Board of Directors, Andrew Tangen. “Her leadership and commitment to legislation that protects and enhances the lives of our veterans have made a significant impact on communities across Illinois. She is truly deserving of this award.”
The Illinois Association of County Veterans Assistance Commissions is dedicated to serving Illinois Veterans and their dependents by overseeing Veterans Assistance Commissions (VACs) across the state. The IACVAC provides training, coordination, and advocacy to ensure that Veterans receive the benefits they deserve. The organization is committed to fostering VACs in all counties and maintaining strong communication with federal, state, and local entities to support veterans.
Kifowit’s legislative work in 2024 further solidified her standing as a leading voice for veterans in Illinois. She passed a bill granting property tax exemptions to all Veterans with service-connected disabilities and a 100% property tax exemption for World War II veterans. Kifowit championed amendments to Illinois laws to fully recognize United States Space Force members as veterans, ensuring they receive the same benefits and services as those who served in other branches. Additionally, she passed legislation requiring the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) and the Department of Labor to provide posters detailing veterans’ benefits and protections, free of charge, to workplaces across the state. Her efforts also addressed military childcare needs by exempting daycare facilities on military bases from state licensing, provided they meet U.S. Department of Defense standards.
Her legislative efforts include securing protections for veterans and their families through reforms in military spouse licensure, higher education services for veterans, and anti-fraud measures to prevent veterans from being exploited by “claim sharks.”
Beyond legislative victories, Kifowit is deeply involved in the local Veteran community. This year, her office was a partner with American Legion Posts 84 and 43 from Aurora and Naperville to host the annual American Legion golf outing fundraiser, raising crucial funds for veteran-related causes. This year’s event, held September 5, brought together more than 100 golfers and sponsors to support and recognize our nation’s veterans, with a special focus on the often underecognized Cold War veterans.
For more information, contact the office of State Representative Stephanie Kifowit at (630) 585-1308 or stephanie.kifowit@att.net.
—Office of State representative Stephanie Kifowit