New York Assembly Bill A08476

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/16/25
• Refer: 5/16/25
• Report Pass: 5/19/25
• Refer: 5/19/25
• Report Pass: 6/13/25
• Refer: 6/13/25

Caption

Protects veterans from fraud and unaccredited representatives; institutes a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for violation; establishes the class A misdemeanor crime of unaccredited representation of a veteran; establishes a veterans' services fund.

Impact

If passed, the GUARD VA Benefits Act would directly amend existing veterans' services laws, general business laws, and penal laws to enhance the protection available to veterans. This includes the creation of a veterans' services fund to manage civil penalties and other revenues to support programs aimed at assisting veterans. It mandates the development of an outreach program to increase awareness about potential fraud risks, thereby facilitating better-informed decisions amongst veterans regarding their benefits and rights.

Summary

Bill A08476, known as the 'Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (GUARD) VA Benefits Act', aims to protect veterans from fraud perpetrated by individuals or entities lacking the authority to assist them in claims related to VA benefits. The legislation includes a range of measures that impose civil penalties of up to $10,000 for violations and establishes the crime of unaccredited representation of veterans as a class A misdemeanor. This act is specifically designed to address the deceptive practices targeting veterans, creating a legal framework to combat these issues that undermines the wellbeing of service members and their families.

Contention

The bill has attracted varied responses from stakeholders in the veterans' advocacy community. Proponents argue that strengthening protections against fraudulent practices is vital for the well-being of veterans, given their vulnerability in navigating complex benefit systems. Conversely, critics express concerns about the potential for overreach or unintended consequences, fearing that some aspects of the bill could hinder legitimate assistance efforts by qualified representatives. They also emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between robust fraud protection and the accessibility of necessary services for veterans seeking legitimate aid.