The bill amends the General Laws related to Deceptive Trade Practices by adding provisions to protect veterans from unfair or deceptive acts when filing for disability benefits with the Department of Veterans Affairs. It introduces a new chapter titled "Veterans' Protection," which outlines the purpose, definitions, prohibitions, ethical considerations, penalties, and contract stipulations for those advising or assisting veterans. The bill prohibits any person from receiving compensation for such assistance, except as permitted under Title 38 of the U.S. Code, and holds individuals to the same ethical standards as attorneys licensed in Rhode Island.

The act is designed to prevent unauthorized individuals from exploiting veterans by engaging in deceptive practices while assisting with disability benefit claims. It includes provisions for civil penalties and declares any contracts made in violation to be void and unenforceable. The bill does not specify insertions or deletions of legal language but is summarized as an amendment to existing law. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, ensuring that veterans receive protection against deceptive practices without delay.

Statutes affected:
7609: 6-13.1-1