H.B. No. 5144 aims to protect veterans from deceptive trade practices by businesses that assist them with claims to the Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill introduces new sections, specifically Sections 17.465 and 17.466, to the Business and Commerce Code, which outline prohibited practices for these businesses. Key prohibitions include engaging in false or misleading advertising regarding costs and services, providing individualized advice without proper accreditation, misrepresenting affiliations with the Department of Veterans Affairs, and improperly accessing veterans' benefit information through the Department's eBenefits portal.

Violations of these provisions would result in civil penalties, with fines not exceeding $25,000 per violation. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025.

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