The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to veterans' benefits by establishing new requirements and procedures for individuals assisting veterans in obtaining benefits. Specifically, it would prohibit individuals from receiving compensation for merely referring veterans to others for assistance. Instead, compensation would only be permissible if a written agreement is prepared and signed by all parties involved, detailing the terms of service and including a disclosure statement indicating that the business is not affiliated with the Arizona Department of Veterans' Services or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Additionally, the bill would prohibit charging initial or nonrefundable fees for such services, and any compensation would be contingent on an increase in the veteran's benefits, capped at five times the amount of that increase.

Furthermore, the bill outlines specific prohibitions on practices related to advising or assisting veterans, such as guaranteeing specific benefits, receiving compensation for services filed within a one-year presumptive period of active duty release without proper acknowledgment, and using international call centers for processing personal information. Violations of these provisions would be classified as unfair or deceptive acts, allowing the Attorney General to impose civil penalties, which would be deposited into the State Homes for Veterans Trust Fund. The bill also clarifies that its requirements do not apply to accredited agents or attorneys regulated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and provides definitions for key terms used within the legislation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-608.01, 41-610.03, 41-603.01, 35-190, 35-313
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-608.01, 41-610.03, 41-603.01, 35-190, 35-313