Bill > HB0342

This bill, known as the Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment (SAVE) Act, establishes stringent regulations for businesses and individuals providing services related to veteran benefits. The legislation prohibits charging fees for referring veterans to services, limits compensation for assistance with benefit claims to no more than five times the monthly benefit increase, and mandates that compensation can only be contingent upon successfully increasing benefits. Providers must disclose that they are not affiliated with government veterans' services, provide a specific written disclosure to clients, and are barred from using international call centers or accessing veterans' personal login information without consent. The bill requires background checks for anyone handling veterans' sensitive medical or financial information and imposes penalties for violations under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act. Importantly, the regulations do not apply to VA-accredited agents, attorneys, or representatives, nor to public or nonprofit higher education institutions. The act will take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to protect veterans from potential predatory practices when seeking benefits assistance by ensuring transparency, fair pricing, and safeguarding personal information.

Business and Industry

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0342&ga=114