Working for Illinois Caucus

State representative Stephanie Kifowit (D-Oswego) House Bill 2714 (HB2714), known as the “Honoring Our Heroes Way” bill, successfully advanced out of the Illinois House Transportation Committee, marking an important step forward in recognizing and honoring fallen service members.

HB2714 expands the Heroes Way Designation Program Act by allowing veterans service organizations, in addition to Gold Star families, to apply for the honorary designation of roadways, bridges, or interchanges in memory of Illinois service members who were killed in action.

“I am proud to see HB2714 advance out of committee,” said State representative Stephanie Kifowit. “As a Marine Corps veteran and chairperson of the Personnel & Pension Appropriations Committee, I know how important it is to ensure that families and Veterans organizations have a meaningful way to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Expanding this recognition ensures that the legacies of our fallen heroes are never forgotten.”

Under HB2714, families and federally- or state-chartered veterans service organizations may petition the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to request a designation and placement of honorary signage along state highways, bridges, and interchanges in honor of a fallen service member. The bill also establishes guidelines for funding and maintaining these honorary markers.

The bill now moves to the full House of Representatives for further consideration. Representative Kifowit remains committed to advocating for this initiative and ensuring that Illinois continues to honor its military heroes.

For more information about the event or to participate, please visit the official event page or contact representative Kifowit’s office at 217-782-8028.

—Office of State representative Stephanie Kifowit