The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6909 aims to establish protections for individuals seeking assistance with veterans and military-related benefits. The bill defines key terms such as "person," "veteran or military benefit," and "veteran or military benefit assistance service." It mandates that any person providing such assistance must obtain necessary qualifications and comply with federal regulations, including fiduciary responsibilities and standards of conduct. Additionally, the bill prohibits charging fees that violate existing regulations and requires clear disclosures in advertisements and communications regarding the services offered.
Violations of these provisions will be classified as unfair or deceptive trade practices, allowing the Attorney General to investigate and enforce compliance. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to ensure that individuals are informed about their rights and the availability of free assistance from accredited organizations. The proposed changes include new legal language that outlines these requirements and protections, while no deletions from current law are specified in the text.