Press Release

For Immediate Release
April 1, 2005
Contact: Barry Bennett
(573)751-1088

Missouri Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder And Illinois Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn Urge Bi-Partisan Support for Missouri Military Family Relief Fund Legislation

Relief Fund Based on Illinois Program

JEFFERSON CITY, MO &mdash Missouri Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder(R) was joined by Illinois Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn (D) Friday, at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Station near St. Louis, in supporting legislation that would create the Missouri Military Family Relief Fund. Legislation currently under consideration in both the Missouri House and the Senate would establish a state administered fund to assist Missouri Resident Guard and Reserve personnel. The fund would offer assistance to qualifying Guard and Reserve families with unique financial needs, who have been deployed for the Global War on Terrorism.

“I want to commend Lieutenant Governor Quinn for leading the effort in Illinois to help National Guard and Reserve families with their financial issues” said Kinder. “ The Missouri Military Relief Fund is a great program that will provide real help to the children and spouses of our Guard and Reserve members who are serving their country far from home.” Kinder added, “I will lead the effort to raise the money needed to start the fund and to also educate Missourians about this much needed program.”

Quinn, who successfully spearheaded the nation’s first military family relief fund, spoke on the success of Illinois’ effort. Since its passage in February 2003, the Illinois Military Family Relief Fund has already distributed more than $2.9 million in grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 to more than 6,000 Illinois military families.

“The dependents of citizen soldiers have plenty to worry about when their loved ones are stationed on the frontlines in Iraq or Afghanistan and shouldn’t be worrying about making the rent or utility bill,” said Quinn. “I commend Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder and the members of the Missouri General Assembly for their efforts to support the brave men and women in uniform who defend our democracy. I urge the people of Missouri to call their state senators and representatives and push for passage of the Missouri Military Family Relief Fund.”

Lt. Gov. Kinder works closely with Missouri Veterans Commission on issues relating to veterans as well as issues facing active military personnel. The Missouri Lieutenant Governors office serves as a clearinghouse and advocate for veterans and their families.

Eleven states have already enacted the innovative Military Family Relief Fund (Arkansas, California, Delaware, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont and Wyoming).  At least 23 states are now considering legislation creating their own Military Family Relief Funds, a voluntary and convenient way for citizens to express their appreciation to military families who face financial hardships when the breadwinner is called to active duty. The legislation enjoys bipartisan support in all states.