Newsmakers: American Legion’s Kristy Janigo on Protecting Veterans from ‘Claim Sharks’

American Legion Department of Minnesota Legislative Chair Kristy Janigo discusses efforts to crack down on unaccredited “claim sharks” who charge veterans steep fees for benefits help—often with misleading promises.

“We’re really proud of the progress we made in bringing awareness to this issue,” said Janigo. 

Since becoming legislative chair of the American Legion Department of Minnesota three years ago, Janigo has highlighted the ongoing push for charitable gambling tax reform. Janigo explained how state taxes are cutting into local American Legion posts’ ability to serve veterans and their communities.

“I never thought that I would be working on charitable gambling issues, to be honest with you, but it is huge for the American Legion,” said Janigo. “About 10 percent of all charitable gambling operations in the state of Minnesota are American Legion posts. And our charitable gambling donations are really how we carry out our four pillar mission and serving veterans in our community.”

Janigo and the Legion would like to cut back on state taxes to allow for more funding to go into their community. 

“We just wish that we had more money in our pockets to get out to the small local charities that we support. So we have been working on tax cuts for charitable gambling for a number of years,” said Janigo. “We know that our plight is getting noticed. It’s just taking a long time to gather enough support for this.”

The push with the American Legion will go on, but Janigo will not be leading it. She’s preparing to step down from her volunteer role and she is reflecting on the positive experience.

“I’ve really enjoyed the past three years. You know, it’s not often when you say that a volunteer opportunity like this has yielded so many great experiences,” said Janigo.

You can follow the American Legion’s legislative priorities at mnlegion/legislation.org  

Janigo advocated for issues in Washington, D.C.

Also See: Newsmakers: Rep. Ginny Klevorn Talks Legislative Budget Priorities

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