Bill > A08476

This bill, known as the "GUARD VA Benefits Act," establishes comprehensive protections for veterans against fraudulent practices by unaccredited representatives. The bill creates an informational outreach program through the Department of Veterans' Services to raise awareness about veterans' benefits matter frauds, including establishing a toll-free hotline, website resources, and public service announcements. It defines "unaccredited representatives" as individuals lacking official VA authorization to assist with benefits claims and establishes significant penalties for those who fraudulently exploit veterans. The bill introduces a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for violations, makes unaccredited representation a class A misdemeanor, and creates a new Veterans' Services Fund to collect penalties and support legitimate veterans' service organizations. The legislation also provides individual veterans with the right to sue entities that violate these protections, seeking damages or injunctions, and mandates annual reporting on the program's activities. By targeting predatory practices that can harm veterans seeking benefits, the bill aims to protect a vulnerable population from financial exploitation and provide them with clear resources and legal recourse.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8476