House Bill 961, the Veterans Empowerment Through Ethical Representation and Navigation Benefits Protection Act, would protect Ohio veterans and their families from predatory claims assistance companies, commonly known as claim sharks. These companies may charge excessive fees, make misleading promises, or operate without accreditation from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

HB 961 would require anyone seeking payment for assisting with a veterans benefits matter to be properly accredited by the VA and follow federal laws governing claims assistance and fee agreements. It would also prohibit paid referral arrangements and prevent companies from guaranteeing a specific disability rating, benefit award, or payment amount. Violations would be considered unfair or deceptive practices under Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act, giving the state the ability to hold bad actors accountable.

Veterans should not have to give up thousands of dollars or months of benefits to receive assistance that is already available at no cost from accredited representatives of veterans service organizations and county veterans service offices.

The American Legion Department of Ohio supports HB 961 because veterans deserve qualified, ethical, and accountable representation. This legislation does not prevent veterans from choosing who assists them. It simply ensures that anyone who profits from providing that assistance follows the law and meets the standards established to protect veterans.

Please contact your state legislators today and ask them to support HB 961 and protect Ohio veterans, their dependents, and their survivors from exploitation.