Peoria Standard

State Representative Travis Weaver has introduced a bill in the 104th General Assembly to support families who have lost loved ones in military service. House Bill 1115 proposes a property tax exemption for Gold Star Parents, aiming to provide some relief to those who have faced such loss.

“These parents have suffered the unimaginable tragedy of losing a child who was serving in our armed forces,” stated Rep. Weaver. “There is no greater sacrifice a person can give to our nation, and it truly is the least we can do to help support these families who have already given so much. This exemption is a small but important piece of legislation that recognizes the sacrifice Gold Star families go through to protect our freedoms and our way of life.”

Rep. Weaver also acknowledged Susan Shaffer, his constituent, for suggesting this legislative initiative. Her son, Dean Russell Shaffer, was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2012. She remains an active member of America’s Gold Star Families organization. Rep. Weaver expressed gratitude by saying, “Thank you, Susan, for bringing this to my attention, and for your family’s incredible sacrifice.”