Tennessee House Bill HB0342

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/25
• Refer: 2/3/25
• Refer: 3/19/25
• Refer: 3/26/25
• Chaptered: 4/29/25
• Passed: 4/29/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 47 and Title 58, relative to veteran benefits.

Impact

The SAVE Act will have a broad impact on how individuals offering assistance with veteran benefits operate within the state of Tennessee. By putting limitations on who can receive compensation for advising veterans, the bill aims to mitigate cases of fraud or misleading services. Additionally, the act sets penalties for violations aligned with the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act, thus reinforcing consumer rights among veterans. The enforcement of this bill is expected to foster a safer environment for veterans seeking assistance.

Summary

House Bill 0342, also known as the Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment (SAVE) Act, aims to amend the Tennessee Code to implement stricter regulations on individuals and businesses that offer advisory services regarding veteran benefits. The bill prohibits compensation for referral services related to veteran benefit claims and requires a detailed written agreement outlining compensation terms if advising veterans. This legislation seeks to protect veterans from potential exploitation and ensure transparent communication about the complexity and availability of veteran benefits.

Sentiment

The legislative sentiment surrounding HB 0342 appears largely positive, as many lawmakers emphasize the necessity of protecting veterans, who are often vulnerable when navigating complex benefits systems. Supporters of the bill argue that it establishes crucial safeguards that ensure veterans receive correct information and avoid being charged for free services available through state and federated organizations. However, there are concerns raised about potential limitations on the services veterans can access under compensation agreements, which some stakeholders worry could restrict the help veterans need.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between consumer protection and access to professional services that advise veterans on claims. Critics fear that overly stringent regulations might discourage qualified advisors from assisting veterans due to financial constraints on how they can operate their businesses. Additionally, the stipulation that advisory services cannot charge up-front or non-refundable fees has led to discussions about its practical implications in the marketplace, potentially creating gaps in the support ecosystem for veterans seeking guidance.