Supporting Illinois’ veterans by making their transition back to civilian life easier is the goal of a new law sponsored by State Senator Neil Anderson (Rock Island).

Anderson’s legislation, Senate Bill 1603/Public Act 99-0032, waives license plate fees for one year for combat veterans returning from active duty. The bill was signed into law by Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner on July 10.

“We will never truly be able to properly thank the brave men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces. It’s because of their sacrifices that our families can sleep soundly at night,” said Anderson. “We may never be able to extend the ‘thank you’ these incredible people deserve, but hopefully this bill can make their transition back to civilian life just a little bit easier.”

Not only did Anderson’s bill have co-sponsors from both sides of the aisle in both the Illinois Senate and House, it also passed in both chambers of the General Assembly with unanimous, bipartisan support.

Senate Bill 1603/Public Act 99-0032 is the freshmen Senator’s first piece of legislation to be signed into law.