Veterans Service Commission reports $49 million in 2024 benefits for Summit County; warns of 'claims shark' firms and urges state action

Larry Moore, representative of the Summit County Veterans Service Commission, delivered an extensive report to the council describing benefits work, service counts and an ongoing effort to counter for‑profit companies that charge veterans for filing claims. Moore reported that the commission’s activity for 2024 helped bring $49,000,146 in VA compensation into the county, and he reviewed transportation services (about 1,377 trips to VA medical facilities in 2024) and claim volume (2,937 claims submitted to VA in the prior year).

Moore said the commission handled awards for dependents’ benefits and pensions and discussed housing supports, including local programs such as Valor Home and Liberty House. He described a case example of successful assistance for a veteran who was helped from living in a car to securing housing and other supports.

He raised a policy concern about private firms (often called 'claims sharks') that charge veterans for filing claims. Moore said pending federal legislation referred to in the hearing as the 'Choice Act' could allow private firms to charge a fee — he cited a figure in committee discussion of up to $12,500 or a percentage (the first five months of compensation) — which he and veterans groups oppose as predatory. Moore said local veterans groups and counties have fought similar bills and are seeking state and federal fixes.

Council members asked about outreach and advertising, and Moore described plans to expand media outreach, bid for PR contracts, and distribute public‑education materials. Several council members expressed support and offered to help with messaging or a possible council resolution urging state action.

Moore also asked council to note that the budget includes a request to increase commissioner stipends and confirmed that some line items for advertising were reorganized into contract services in the budget packet.