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 enacted, S08150 will amend the veterans' services law, the general business law, and the penal law to provide a legal framework for penalizing those who misrepresent themselves to veterans. The bill outlines the definition of 'unaccredited representatives' and establishes additional consumer protections for veterans. It calls for the creation of a 'veterans' services fund,' which will finance initiatives aimed at supporting accredited representation for veterans, thus improving the integrity of the benefits application process.
Summary
S08150, known as the 'GUARD VA Benefits Act', aims to protect veterans from fraud perpetrated by unaccredited representatives who assist in claims for veterans' benefits. The bill establishes a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for violations concerning the exploitation of veterans. It specifically targets individuals or entities who mislead or take advantage of veterans seeking benefits, emphasizing the need for regulated representation in veterans' affairs.
Contention
Debates surrounding the bill highlight concerns about the potential for overreach in regulation of who can provide assistance with veterans' benefits. Proponents argue that the law is necessary to curb fraud and protect vulnerable veterans, particularly those who may not fully understand the complexities of the claims process. Critics, however, may express concerns that this bill could inadvertently limit access to helpful resources or create a more cumbersome system for veterans seeking legitimate assistance.
Same As
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.
Relates to establishing distinctive "Women Veterans" plates and the women veterans support fund; establishes that moneys of the fund will be used for women veteran homelessness, counseling and other programs that support women veterans.
Requires the notification to veterans of the availability of veterans' services free of charge by federal, state, and local veteran agencies; requires certain disclosures to be provided when notifying veterans about available services; provides for civil penalties for any violations.
Establishes certain protections related to the receipt of compensation for advising or assisting with veterans' benefits matters, including penalties for violations.
Establishes the "New York state veterans cemetery act"; directs the division to conduct an investigation and study on the issue of the establishment of a New York state veterans cemetery funding program.
Payment rates established for certain substance use disorder treatment services, and vendor eligibility recodified for payments from the behavioral health fund.