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New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed the Guard VA Benefits Act into law, aimed at protecting veterans from fraud. The new legislation targets unaccredited representatives who charge unauthorized fees for assisting veterans with their benefits. Violators face penalties of up to $10,000 and misdemeanor charges. The collected penalties will fund the newly established Veterans' Services Fund, which provides grants to certified organizations aiding veterans with benefit claims.
Governor Hochul, joined by veterans and state officials, emphasized the importance of supporting those who have served the nation. "We owe it to them to make sure that they never have to struggle to access their hard-earned benefits," she stated during a press conference. The legislation is part of a broader initiative to improve affordability and support for veterans in New York.
The law is expected to deter fraudulent practices like pension poaching and benefit theft, which have long plagued the veteran community. New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Viviana M. DeCohen praised the initiative, saying it strengthens the promise to honor veterans' service and protect their benefits.
The Guard VA Benefits Act is part of a trio of bills signed by Governor Hochul, which also includes measures to promote employment opportunities for disabled veterans and officially recognize New York as a Purple Heart state. The state is home to approximately 688,000 veterans, making it the seventh-largest veteran population in the United States.