The proposed bill establishes regulations for individuals or entities that provide advice or assistance to veterans seeking benefits. It prohibits any person from receiving compensation for such services unless they comply with specific requirements outlined in the bill. These include creating a written agreement detailing payment terms, providing a clear disclosure statement about the lack of affiliation with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs, and ensuring that the individual acknowledges understanding of the disclosure. Additionally, the bill mandates that advertisements for these services must also include similar disclosures to inform potential clients about the availability of free services from other organizations.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits individuals from guaranteeing specific outcomes regarding veterans benefits and restricts the amount of compensation that can be charged, ensuring fees are reasonable as per federal guidelines. It also states that no compensation can be received for referring individuals to other advisors. Violations of these provisions will be classified as deceptive trade practices under Alabama law. Notably, the bill does not apply to attorneys accredited by the federal government, and it is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.