For-Profit Claims Consultants Gain Ground Despite Criticism from Veterans Advocates

As per an article in the War Horse, Veterans rights groups have long said that for-profit, unaccredited businesses like Veterans Guardian take advantage of disabled veterans by charging high fees to help them file VA claims. However, after years of campaigning, their efforts are faltering due to opposition from politicians and the law.

The CHOICE for Veterans Act, a bill led by Republicans, passed the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs in May and is now on its way to a full vote. According to the bill, consultants could legally charge troops across the country for help with their disability claims. However, there would be some limits, such as a $12,500 fee cap and limits on sending work overseas. It is the first time that a bill like this has gotten this far.

Meanwhile, Democratic attempts, led by Rep. Chris Pappas, to make such actions illegal have not progressed. Pappas said that the CHOICE Act was "deeply concerning" because it allows businesses that prioritize profit to take advantage of soldiers. Support groups like Disabled American Veterans agree with this and say that no soldier should ever have to pay for help with their claim.

Critics point the finger at a substantial political effort. Over the past two years, Veterans Guardian and other similar companies have spent more than $4 million on lobbying and given money to politicians who support good legislation, such as Rep. Jack Bergman, who offered the CHOICE Act.

Bans are also being criticized at the state level. Using its First Amendment rights, Veterans Guardian sued in New Jersey to defeat a law that would have banned its services in 2023. A federal appeals court ruled in April in favor of the company in a significant case that could establish a national standard, stating that its services may constitute protected speech under the First Amendment.

Legislators in several states have postponed or canceled similar bans because they do not want to become entangled in expensive court battles. Even veterans who are fed up with red tape support their decision to hire consultants, despite the high costs.

Laws, lawsuits, and public opinion are all pulling in different ways, so the fight is at a crossroads. Which side wins in the debate over regulation versus deregulation will determine how veterans can get fair and reasonable help in the future.

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