Senator Tammy Baldwin has introduced a new bill aimed at protecting veterans.
The Stopping Abuse, Fraud, and Exploitation by Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (SAFEGUARD) Veterans Act would clarify that only accredited individuals can assist veterans with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefit claims, and would reinstate criminal penalties for unaccredited agents who charge veterans extortionate fees for assistance with VA disability claims.
While federal law prohibits this activity, predatory actors have used loopholes to avoid prosecution, and federal agencies are limited in their ability to enforce the law without criminal penalties.
Sen. Baldwin said of the measure, “Wisconsin veterans have served and sacrificed for our nation, and it’s our duty to ensure they get the care they need when they return home. These brave men and women earned their benefits, and it’s our job to stop any bad actors who try to take advantage and scam them.”
