The proposed bill, known as the Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment (SAVE) Act, aims to regulate third-party assistance for veterans' claims by prohibiting certain practices and establishing clear guidelines for compensation and disclosures. Key provisions include a ban on receiving compensation for referring individuals to veterans' benefits advisors, a requirement for written agreements detailing compensation terms, and specific disclosures that must be provided to clients. The bill also stipulates that compensation for advisory services can only be contingent upon an increase in benefits awarded, with a cap set at five times the monthly increase. Additionally, it mandates that no initial or nonrefundable fees can be charged, and guarantees of successful outcomes are prohibited.
The bill outlines penalties for violations, categorizing them as unfair or deceptive practices under existing trade laws, with civil penalties determined by the district court and restitution directed to harmed veterans. It also emphasizes the importance of protecting veterans' personal information by prohibiting the use of international call centers and requiring background checks for individuals accessing sensitive data. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and aims to enhance the integrity of veterans' claims assistance while safeguarding the interests of veterans seeking benefits.