Bill > SB1803

This bill establishes new regulations for individuals and entities who assist veterans with their benefits claims, aiming to protect veterans from fraudulent or exploitative practices. It prohibits anyone from acting as an agent or attorney for veterans' benefits matters unless they are officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). For those not acting as accredited agents or attorneys, compensation is only allowed for advising, consulting, guiding, coaching, or training individuals on initial claims, supplemental claims, or higher-level reviews, which is a process where a claim is re-examined by a more senior reviewer. These individuals must file their standard fee agreements with the Attorney General's office and provide a written agreement to the veteran that includes the fee structure, a three-day cancellation period, and a clear disclosure stating they are not accredited by the VA and that free services may be available from government or veteran organizations. They are also prohibited from guaranteeing specific benefit outcomes, using predatory advertising, employing medical providers for examinations, using international call centers for data processing, accessing a veteran's personal information directly, charging upfront or nonrefundable fees (compensation must be contingent on benefit increases and capped at five times the monthly increase), impersonating veterans or accredited representatives when contacting the VA, submitting paperwork to the VA on behalf of the veteran, holding power of attorney, or representing the veteran in any official proceedings. Violations are considered unlawful practices, and individuals who contract with non-compliant entities have a right to sue. These regulations do not apply to individuals already accredited and regulated by the VA.