The Veterans’ and Military Discount Program was supposed to go into effect in 2015. According to the law, it is designed to connect veterans and active-duty service members with merchants who want to offer special discounts and promotions.
State auditors found the program didn't get off the ground.
The department responded that it was delayed due to staff turnover and other priorities.
Dave MacDonna, a spokesperson for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, says the department has since developed a web form for businesses to submit their discounts, which are posted on the Veterans’ Affairs website.
“This is the business way to say ‘thank you’ to the servicemen and women who have put their life on the line so they can enjoy their enterprise here in Illinois," MacDonna said.
So far, offers include free minor league baseball tickets and discounts on cremation services, among others.
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