Bill > SB0215

This bill amends the Michigan Consumer Protection Act to enhance protections for veterans when seeking benefits services by adding new restrictions and requirements for individuals and organizations offering such services. The bill prohibits anyone from providing veterans' benefit services unless they are a government employee, an accredited individual, or a representative of a recognized veterans' services organization. For those seeking compensation for veterans' benefit services, the bill mandates specific conditions, including: creating a written agreement with clear terms, limiting compensation to no more than 5 times the amount of one month's benefit increase, prohibiting initial fees, ensuring no use of international call centers for processing personal information, requiring background checks for anyone accessing veterans' medical or financial information, and mandating disclosures about service affiliations and potential alternative benefits. The bill also requires clear disclaimers in advertisements for veterans' benefits events, stating that the event is not officially sponsored by veterans' organizations. These provisions aim to prevent predatory practices and protect veterans from potential exploitation when seeking benefits, ensuring transparency and limiting potentially misleading or harmful service offerings.

Budget and Finance, Military Affairs and Security

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0215