The bill establishes regulations for individuals who advise or assist others in filing claims for veterans' benefits in Alabama. It mandates that no person may act as an agent or attorney in this capacity without first being accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Additionally, those seeking compensation for such services must provide a written agreement detailing payment terms and a disclosure statement indicating that their services are not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs or other veterans service organizations, which may offer similar services for free. The disclosure must be clearly presented in both oral and written forms, and the individual receiving services must acknowledge understanding of this information.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits individuals from guaranteeing specific outcomes regarding veterans' benefits and restricts the collection of excessive fees for services rendered. It also includes provisions against receiving compensation for referrals to other service providers. Violations of these regulations will be classified as deceptive trade practices under Alabama law. The act will take effect on October 1, 2025, and does not apply to attorneys accredited by the federal government under specific regulations.