Bill > HB398

This bill, the Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment Act, aims to protect veterans by regulating individuals who charge fees for assisting with veterans' benefits matters, which are defined as claims related to benefits administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Veterans Services. Key provisions include prohibiting compensation for referring veterans to others for assistance, restricting charging fees for services related to claims filed within one year of a veteran's release from active duty unless the veteran waives free services, and requiring that any compensation for services be contingent on an increase in benefits awarded and not exceed five times the monthly benefit increase. Furthermore, individuals providing these services must provide a written disclosure stating they are not affiliated with government agencies and that free services may be available, and they are prohibited from using international call centers to process veteran information, using a veteran's login credentials, or allowing access to sensitive information without a background check. Violations of this act will be considered prohibited practices under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, making them subject to penalties and enforcement actions.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB398