H.R. 1318 · 110th Congress
Veterans' Benefits Protection Act
- Stage
- In committee
- Sponsor
- Ron Lewis
- Introduced
- 2007-03-05
- Latest action
- 2007-03-09 · Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
Summary
Veterans' Benefits Protection Act - Repeals the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to prescribe qualifications and standards of, and to set fees charged by, agents or attorneys representing veterans in claims before the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Authorizes the Secretary to require that such individuals show that they are of good moral character, and qualified and competent to assist claimants. Removes some instances under which the Secretary may suspend or exclude an agent or attorney from such representation.
Repeals the Secretary's authority to review and order a reduction in the fee charged to a claimant by an agent or attorney.
Imposes fines and criminal penalties for soliciting, contracting for, charging, or receiving any part of a benefit or claim allowed to a claimant (or attempting such acts).