Bill > HB508

This bill establishes new regulations for individuals and entities who charge fees for advising, assisting, or consulting with veterans on matters related to their benefits, which are entitlements administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Kentucky Department of Veterans' Affairs (KDVA). Key provisions include prohibiting the use of international call or data centers for processing veteran information, banning aggressive solicitation of business, and forbidding access to personal medical, financial, or login credentials. It also limits fees, prohibiting interest charges and capping fees at five times the one-month benefit increase, not to exceed $12,500, and requires a written agreement specifying no non-refundable initial fees. Furthermore, individuals providing these compensated services must clearly disclose that their business is not affiliated with government agencies or federally chartered veterans' organizations and that free services may be available, with this disclosure needing to be provided both orally and in writing. Those receiving compensation for initial disability claims assistance must also report annually to the KDVA with specific business and claim data, and the KDVA can create a standardized reporting form. Violations of these provisions will be considered violations of the Consumer Protection Act, and importantly, attorneys and law firms providing such services will be governed by federal regulations.

Military Affairs and Security

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/hb508.html