SB 658
Prohibiting certain persons from receiving compensation for advising or assisting with veterans' benefits
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill, titled the Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment Act, prohibits individuals from receiving compensation for advising or assisting veterans in obtaining benefits. It specifically restricts payments for referring veterans to advisors, providing services related to claims filed within a year of military discharge (unless waived by the veteran), or guaranteeing specific benefit outcomes. The bill also mandates written agreements outlining compensation terms, requires clear disclosures to veterans about the advisor's affiliation and potential endorsements, and establishes data security and background check requirements for those handling veterans’ personal information.
Key provisions
- Prohibits payment for referring veterans to benefit advisors.
- Restricts compensation for services related to claims filed within one year of active-duty release (with a waiver option).
- Outlaws guarantees of specific benefit outcomes.
- Requires written agreements limiting compensation and specifying how it’s tied to benefit increases.
- Mandates clear written disclosures to veterans regarding advisor affiliations and potential endorsements.
- Prohibits the use of international data centers for processing veterans’ personal information.
- Requires background checks for individuals accessing veterans’ personal information.
- Defines ‘representation’ and ‘compensation’ related to veterans’ benefits claims.
Who is affected
- Veterans
- Individuals seeking veterans’ benefits
- Organizations providing veterans’ benefit assistance
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