Bill > HB2836

This bill, known as the Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment Act (SAVE Act), establishes strict guidelines for businesses and individuals providing paid services related to veterans' benefits claims. The legislation prohibits compensation for referring veterans to benefits advisors and restricts how such advisors can charge for their services. Specifically, compensation for veterans' benefits assistance can only be contingent upon an increase in benefits, with fees not exceeding five times the monthly benefit increase. Advisors must provide a written disclosure stating they are not affiliated with government veterans' organizations and that free services may be available. The bill also mandates that businesses advising veterans must not use international call centers, cannot access veterans' personal login information, and must conduct background checks on employees handling veterans' personal information. Violations of these provisions are considered deceptive practices under the Oklahoma Consumer Protection Act, with potential civil penalties enforced by the state Attorney General. Each day of continued violation can be treated as a separate offense. The act will become effective on November 1, 2025, and does not apply to VA-accredited agents or attorneys already regulated by federal agencies.