Veterans: benefits; Michigan consumer protection act; amend to enhance protections for individuals applying for veterans benefits. Amends sec. 3k of 1976 PA 331 (MCL 445.903k).

SB 1103 strengthens protections for veterans and their families by restricting who can charge fees for help with veterans' benefit claims. The bill prohibits unaccredited individuals from receiving compensation unless they sign a written agreement that limits fees to a percentage of any benefit increase and bans upfront or nonrefundable charges. It also requires these providers to clearly disclose that they are not government employees, warn that benefits are not guaranteed, and ensure that veterans' personal data is not processed through international call centers or used for accessing sensitive medical and financial records. Additionally, the law mandates that advertisements for veterans' benefit seminars must include prominent, standardized language stating that the event is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs or other recognized organizations. These rules apply to private companies and individuals but exempt government officials acting in their official capacity and accredited attorneys.