The Iowa Veterans Claims Protection Act establishes new regulations to protect veterans and their families from predatory practices related to veterans benefits claims. The bill defines "accredited representative" and "claim," and prohibits individuals who are not accredited representatives from soliciting or receiving compensation for assisting veterans, service members, or their dependents with claims. It also forbids misrepresentation of accreditation, unauthorized use of personal identifying information, and making false statements regarding claims. However, individuals may provide general education or referrals to accredited representatives without compensation.
To enforce these provisions, the bill allows the attorney general to impose civil penalties of up to $10,000 for violations, with collected penalties directed to the veterans trust fund. Additionally, veterans, service members, or their dependents harmed by violations can pursue civil actions for damages and equitable relief. The bill mandates the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct outreach and education on predatory claims practices, promote awareness of accredited representatives, and maintain a public list of these representatives to assist Iowa veterans.