SB 704
Prohibiting certain compensation for advising or assisting with veterans benefits
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill, titled the Veterans’ Empowerment and Trust Safeguard Act, prohibits individuals from receiving compensation for assisting others in obtaining veterans’ benefits. Specifically, it restricts payments for advising, referring, guaranteeing benefits, or charging excessive fees related to veterans’ claims. The bill also requires written fee agreements to be filed with the Department of Veterans Affairs and prohibits the use of medical evidence or expert testimony in connection with claims if fees are not predetermined.
Key provisions
- Prohibits compensation for assisting others in obtaining veterans’ benefits.
- Restricts compensation for referring individuals to benefit assistance services.
- Prevents guarantees of specific benefit receipt.
- Limits fees charged for assistance with veterans’ claims.
- Requires written fee agreements with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Prohibits the use of medical evidence or expert testimony contingent on claim outcomes.
- Establishes violations as breaches of the West Virginia Consumer Credit and Protection Act.
- Defines key terms related to the bill's scope.
Who is affected
- Veterans
- Individuals seeking veterans’ benefits
- Service providers assisting veterans with benefits
- Legal professionals and agents assisting with benefits
- Organizations providing veterans’ benefit assistance
Notable changes
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours