Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB925

Introduced
2/9/23  

Caption

Protect Camp Lejeune VETS Act Protect Camp Lejeune Victims Ensnared by Trial-lawyer’s Scams Act

Impact

If enacted, HB925 would significantly alter the legal landscape for victims seeking compensation through the Camp Lejeune Justice Act by capping attorney fees. Supporters of the bill argue that this measure is essential to protect vulnerable veterans and their families from predatory practices by certain trial lawyers who might otherwise exploit their circumstances for personal gain. By limiting fees, the bill aims to ensure that a greater portion of any awarded compensation goes directly to victims rather than being siphoned off by attorneys.

Summary

House Bill 925, known as the Protect Camp Lejeune Victims Ensnared by Trial-lawyer’s Scams Act, is proposed legislation aimed at amending the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022. The primary intent of HB925 is to impose limitations on the fees that attorneys can charge for services related to claims arising from the water contamination at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Under this bill, attorneys would be prohibited from receiving more than 12% of the payment for administrative claims and 17% for judgments or settlements related to actions filed under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

Conclusion

As discussions around HB925 progress in Congress, it remains to be seen how the proposed amendments will reconcile the interests of victims, legal practitioners, and the broader implications for justice system integrity. The bill underscores an ongoing concern regarding the balance between protecting consumers from undue legal fees and ensuring that they retain access to competent legal representation.

Contention

The introduction of HB925 has sparked debates among various stakeholders. Proponents, including some lawmakers, assert that capping attorney fees could enhance access to justice for Camp Lejeune victims, making it easier for them to receive the compensation they desperately need. However, opponents, including certain legal advocates and organizations, argue that such fee limitations might discourage qualified attorneys from representing these claims, ultimately hindering victims' ability to seek justice. They contend that adequate compensation for legal representation is vital, especially in complex cases such as those involving contamination-related illnesses.

Companion Bills

US SB378

Same As Protect Camp Lejeune VETS Act Protect Camp Lejeune Victims Ensnared by Trial-lawyer’s Scams Act

Previously Filed As

US SB378

Protect Camp Lejeune VETS Act Protect Camp Lejeune Victims Ensnared by Trial-lawyer’s Scams Act

US SB907

Ensuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act of 2025

US HB8545

Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2024

US SB5257

Ensuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act of 2024

US HB1163

Protecting Taxpayers and Victims of Unemployment Fraud Act

US SB1275

Protect Access to Justice for Veterans Act of 2023

US HB1204

Protect Access to Justice for Veterans Act

US HB2998

Protecting America’s Workers Act

US HB1126

HOPE Act Health, Opportunity, Protecting life, Education Act

US HB3934

Uyghur Human Rights Protection Act

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