summary
Introduced
01/05/2026
01/05/2026
In Committee
01/05/2026
01/05/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Assistance in obtaining veteran benefits. Provides that a person may not receive compensation for services related to veterans' benefits matters except as permitted under federal law. Provides that a person may not receive compensation for referring an individual to another person to provide services related to veterans' benefits matters. Provides that a person seeking to receive compensation for services related to veterans' benefits matters must, before rendering any services, memorialize in a written agreement that is signed by both parties and that complies with federal regulations all terms regarding the payment of fees for services rendered. Provides that a person may not receive excessive or unreasonable fees for services related to veterans' benefits matters. Provides that a violation constitutes a deceptive act under the law concerning deceptive consumer sales.
AI Summary
This bill establishes new regulations governing compensation for services related to veterans' benefits matters in Indiana. The legislation defines key terms such as "compensation" (including money, things of value, or financial benefits) and "veterans' benefits matter" (any claim affecting veterans' benefits). The bill prohibits individuals from receiving compensation for preparing, presenting, or advising on veterans' benefits claims except as permitted by federal law, and bars compensation for referring individuals to such services. Professionals seeking compensation must first create a written agreement signed by both parties that outlines all fee terms and adheres to specific federal regulations. The bill also prohibits guaranteeing specific benefits or outcomes and prevents charging excessive or unreasonable fees for veterans' benefits services. Violations of these provisions will be considered a deceptive act under Indiana consumer protection law, which can lead to legal consequences. The regulations are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and are designed to protect veterans from potential exploitation by service providers seeking to profit from benefits claims.
Committee Categories
Military Affairs and Security
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
First reading: referred to Committee on Veterans Affairs and The Military (on 01/05/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/senate/136/details |
| BillText | https://iga.in.gov/pdf-documents/124/2026/senate/bills/SB0136/SB0136.01.INTR.pdf |
| Fiscal Note #1: Introduced | https://iga.in.gov/pdf-documents/124/2026/senate/bills/SB0136/fiscal-notes/SB0136.01.INTR.FN001.pdf |
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