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

The act is designed to prevent unauthorized individuals or entities from exploiting veterans by offering assistance with disability claims in an unethical or deceptive manner. It ensures that only those authorized by federal law can assist veterans and receive compensation for such services. The bill does not specify insertions or deletions of legal language but provides a summary of the new provisions. The act will take effect immediately upon passage, offering immediate protection to veterans.

Statutes affected:
2700: 6-13.1-1