Bill > SB300

This bill creates a new section of Missouri law that regulates compensation for individuals advising or assisting veterans with benefits matters. The bill defines key terms like "compensation" and "veterans benefits matter" and establishes several important restrictions: no person can receive payment for advising veterans on benefits matters without first having a written agreement that follows federal guidelines, no compensation can be received before a notice of disagreement is filed, and no person can guarantee specific benefits outcomes. The bill requires service providers to disclose upfront that they are not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or Missouri Veterans' Commission, and that free services may be available through other organizations. Service providers must provide this disclosure both orally and in writing, with a specific font size and placement in their agreements. Advertisements for such services must also include similar disclosure language. Violations of these provisions are classified as a class A misdemeanor. The law aims to protect veterans from potentially exploitative or misleading services by establishing clear guidelines and transparency requirements for those seeking compensation for veterans benefits assistance.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=91