Bill > S08150

This bill, known as the "GUARD VA benefits act," aims to protect veterans from fraud and unaccredited representatives by establishing comprehensive measures to prevent and address deceptive practices targeting veterans seeking benefits. The bill creates an informational outreach program that will educate veterans about potential frauds, establish a toll-free hotline and website resources, and provide public service announcements to help veterans identify and avoid scams. It defines "unaccredited representatives" as individuals lacking official VA authorization to assist with benefits claims and establishes significant penalties for those who engage in fraudulent activities. The legislation introduces a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for violations, makes unaccredited representation a class A misdemeanor, and creates a veterans' services fund to collect penalties and support veterans' service organizations. Additionally, the bill empowers individual victims to bring legal actions against fraudulent entities, allows for criminal prosecution, and requires annual reporting on the program's activities and fund usage. The goal is to provide veterans with better protection, information, and resources to prevent them from being exploited when seeking important benefits and services.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8150