House committee advances bill limiting paid assistance for veterans' benefit claims

The House Committee on Emergency Management, General Government, and Veterans on May 22, 2025 voted to advance Senate Bill 150A to the floor with a "do pass" recommendation; the committee passed the motion 5–2 after debate over whether the measure could unintentionally restrict veterans' access to paid assistance.

The bill, summarized by LPRO staff for the committee, would generally prohibit compensation for preparing or advising on veterans' benefits applications, appealing benefit decisions and for referring veterans to providers of those services; staff reported minimal fiscal impact and no revenue impact, and noted the committee originally heard the bill on May 1. The provision references federal regulations governing reasonable fees for veterans' representation.

Committee members said the measure is meant to stop companies that charge excessive fees to veterans, but several lawmakers warned the language could create obstacles for veterans who rely on paid helpers. "So I'm gonna be a no today," Representative Lewis said, adding she was "very concerned about being unintended consequences for veterans" and citing specific bill language she said might prevent a veteran who wants to file an appeal from hiring an attorney. Lewis said she reviewed Connecticut's law and preferred its approach.

Vice Chair Graber, who moved the bill to the floor, acknowledged those concerns but said she supports advancing the measure now to stop what she described as "bad actors" who are "deeply gouging our veterans and taking advantage of folks who are vulnerable." Graber also said she was willing to return in the short session to refine the bill. Representative Boyce said he would vote yes and described the issue as difficult but worthy of action to protect veterans.

LPRO staff and several members referenced 38 CFR 14.636 when discussing how reasonable fees are determined under federal rules; Representative Lewis and others expressed concern that the bill's wording could force veterans to pursue fee disputes in court rather than rely on existing federal fee standards. Chair Tran responded to committee questions, saying, "This bill does not prevent folks who want to support veterans with the claims, either not charging them or charging them a reasonable fee," and that the bill is intended to prevent exploitative actors.

The committee recorded the roll call after discussion. Votes on the motion to advance Senate Bill 150A were: Representative Boyce — yes; Representative Evans — yes; Representative Carlados — no; Representative Buenavent — yes; Vice Chair Draper — yes; Vice Chair Lewis — no; Chair Tran — yes. The motion passed. Chair Tran said she would carry the bill.

With the measure advanced, supporters indicated they expect to return with clarifying amendments in the short session to address concerns raised on the floor; opponents said they would press for narrower language to avoid limiting veterans' access to attorneys or legitimate paid assistance. The committee record lists minimal fiscal and revenue impacts; no additional appropriation or effective date was specified in the work session discussion.