Veterans

SB 704 prohibits most compensation for assisting veterans with benefits claims, directly affecting advocates, attorneys, and support organizations who help veterans navigate the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) system. Key provisions require written fee agreements filed with the VA, ban guarantees of specific benefit amounts, prohibit charging for services before a VA decision, and forbid contingent fees for medical evidence or testimony. The bill also restricts excessive fees and mandates compliance with federal fee guidelines (38 C.F.R. § 14.636). It does not override federal law but adds state-level safeguards to prevent exploitative practices in veterans' benefits assistance.