The proposed bill aims to establish the Veterans' Empowerment and Trust Safeguard Act in West Virginia, which introduces a series of prohibitions regarding compensation for services related to veterans' benefits. Key provisions include prohibiting individuals from receiving compensation for assisting others in obtaining veterans' benefits unless permitted by federal law, as well as forbidding compensation for referrals to other individuals for similar assistance. Additionally, the bill prohibits charging excessive fees, guaranteeing specific benefits, and providing services without a written fee agreement filed with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Violations of these provisions would be classified as violations of the West Virginia Consumer Credit and Protection Act.

The bill also outlines specific definitions relevant to its provisions, such as "compensation," "person," and "veterans' benefits matter." It establishes that any person seeking compensation for assistance with veterans' benefits must memorialize the terms of payment in a written agreement that adheres to federal criteria. However, exceptions are made for accredited agents, attorneys, or representatives of recognized organizations, state or federal employees authorized to take actions otherwise prohibited, and licensed medical professionals who charge predetermined fees for expert testimony.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9A-7-1, 9A-7-2, 9A-7-3, 9A-7-4, 9A-7-5