Bill > SB0362

This bill, known as the Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment (SAVE) Act, establishes new regulations for businesses and individuals providing services related to veteran benefits. The legislation prohibits charging fees for referring veterans to benefit assistance services and restricts compensation for benefit-related services to only be based on successful increases in awarded benefits, with a maximum fee of five times the monthly benefit increase. Businesses must provide a mandatory disclosure statement clarifying they are not affiliated with government veteran services and that free alternatives exist. The bill also imposes strict requirements on handling veterans' personal information, including prohibiting the use of international call centers, preventing unauthorized access to veterans' login credentials, and mandating background checks for anyone accessing medical or financial information. Violations of these provisions are considered deceptive practices under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act, with potential daily penalties and funds collected going to the state's general fund. The act does not apply to VA-accredited representatives or employees of public or nonprofit higher education institutions. The law will take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to actions and agreements made on or after that date, aiming to protect veterans from potentially exploitative service providers.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0362&ga=114