Members of the military who are stationed in Illinois could soon get a head-start on their civilian careers, thanks to legislation filed by State Senator Paul Schimpf (R-Waterloo).
“This legislation would help service members find careers here in Illinois, where they are stationed, before they leave the military,” said State Senator Paul Schimpf (R-Waterloo). “I firmly believe that the more veterans we can keep in Illinois, the better off our state is.”
Senate Bill 2925 is designed to connect the Department of Defense Skillbridge apprenticeship program with Illinois-based employers. Skillbridge is designed to provide service members with civilian work experience through industry-specific training, apprenticeships, or internships during their last 180 days of service. Schimpf’s legislation provides a tax credit for businesses that take part in the program, which incentivizes the businesses to connect with service members stationed in Illinois.
“Many service members who are stationed in Illinois are not originally from this state, and would likely return home when they are discharged,” said Senator Schimpf. “But if we can give them a chance to connect and train with potential future employers before they leave the service, we have a better chance of keeping them here in Illinois.”
On March 3, the Illinois Senate Veterans Affairs Committee voted to advance the legislation for consideration to the full Senate.
