GUARD VA Benefits Act

Bill Summary

The GUARD VA Benefits Act (H.R. 1732) is a bipartisan congressional measure introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on February 27, 2025. The bill seeks to amend title 38 of the United States Code to reinstate penalties for individuals who charge unauthorized fees to veterans for assistance with claims for benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Specifically, Section 2 of the bill modifies Section 5905 of title 38 by: (1) changing the section heading from 'Penalty' to 'Penalties' and updating the corresponding table of contents; (2) inserting a subsection designation '(a) Withholding of Benefits.--' before the existing language regarding who may be penalized; and (3) adding a new subsection '(b) Charging of Unauthorized Fees.--' which prohibits any person from soliciting, contracting for, charging, receiving, or attempting to solicit, contract for, charge, or receive any fee or compensation related to the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of any veterans' benefits claim, except as provided in sections 5904 or 1984 of title 38. Violators would be subject to fines as provided in title 18 of the U.S. Code (federal criminal code). The bill is sponsored by Representative Chris Pappas (D-NH) and has 42 cosponsors from both parties, including Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), and others. The measure has been referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and the House Committee on the Judiciary for consideration. The GUARD VA Benefits Act aims to protect veterans from exploitation by unaccredited representatives who engage in predatory practices by charging fees for services that should be provided free of charge by accredited Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), state officials, or attorneys. By reinstating penalties that may have been weakened or removed in previous legislation, the bill seeks to deter fraudulent activity and ensure veterans receive the full benefits they have earned through their service without unauthorized deductions or charges. The legislation addresses a recognized problem in the veterans' benefits system where bad actors take advantage of veterans' lack of familiarity with the complex claims process to extract money illegally. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary to uphold the integrity of the VA benefits system and protect vulnerable veterans from financial harm.

Where Each Party Stands

History