STATEHOUSE (Feb. 11, 2025) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation authored by State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) to crack down on bad actors who take advantage of veterans when applying for benefits.
House Bill 1670 would establish the Veteran Empowerment Act, which strengthens oversight of individuals who are providing assistance to Hoosier veterans. Judy said, far too often attorneys and other bad actors overcharge and take advantage of veterans and their benefits by collecting a portion of the disability compensation, acquiring the back pay for a long-term pending claim or charging large upfront fees.
"Time and again veterans are misled by unqualified people when seeking help with their benefits," Judy said. "This bill is about protecting veterans and ensuring that they get the services they deserve."
Judy said, organizations and individuals offering benefits assistance would have to meet standard qualifications to represent veterans to help safeguard them from fraudulent or misleading claims.
Additionally, those assisting, consulting or advising veterans regarding benefits for a fee would not be able to use international call centers or data centers for processing veterans' personal information, use a veteran's personal log-in, username or password in order to gain access to medical, financial or government benefits, and would have to undergo a national criminal history background check before accessing a veteran's medical or financial information.
House Bill 1670, was passed with bipartisan support and now moves to the Senate for further consideration. For more information, or to watch session and committees live, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) represents House District 83,
which includes portions of Allen and Whitley counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo
