IL HB3261

Amends the Personnel Code to expand the definition of "veteran" to include members of the Illinois National Guard and reserve components of the armed forces of the United States.

Adds a new category for 3-point veteran preference for those who served a minimum of 4 years in the Illinois National Guard or reserve component regardless of whether they were mobilized to active duty.

Requires the Department of Central Management Services to verify veteran status using certified copies of DD214 forms, NGB-22 (National Guard Service proof), or other acceptable evidence of honorable discharge before granting preference.

Maintains existing preference point structures: 10 points for service-connected disabilities or Purple Heart recipients, 5 points for those serving during hostilities under specified conditions, and 3 points for other honorable service.

Extends veteran preference eligibility to surviving unremarried spouses of veterans with service-connected deaths or disabilities, and to one parent of unmarried veterans with service-connected deaths or disabilities preventing civil service employment.