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Heated committee hearing on veterans bill: VFW warns of federal conflict while industry groups back transparency reforms
Summary
Senate Bill 215 would amend the Michigan Consumer Protection Act to add consumer protections for veterans using paid benefit-assistance services; supporters said it increases transparency and preserves choice while the Veterans of Foreign Wars urged rejection, arguing sections could conflict with federal law and cited a recent court decision striking a similar Louisiana law.
The House Appropriations Committee heard competing testimony on Senate Bill 215 on March 11, a measure intended to protect Michigan veterans from deceptive or costly assistance when they seek federal VA benefits.
"These are basic consumer protections," Rafael B. Johnson, legislative director for Senator Sylvia Santana, told the committee, summarizing SB 215's requirements for written fee agreements, limits on compensation and protections for veterans'personal data. Johnson said the bill passed the Senate unanimously and was designed to reduce exploitation while preserving legitimate assistance.
House Fiscal's Aaron Meek told members the bill is not expected to…
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