Protect Veterans from Predatory Practices: Support SB 694
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At CSAC’s 131st Annual Meeting in Santa Clara County, the Government Finance and Administration (GFA) policy committee hosted a panel titled “County Veterans Service Officers: Veterans’ Local Lifeline” which highlighted SB 694 (Archuleta) and the need for legislation that protects both veterans and the role of County Veterans Services Officers (CVSOs).
Senator Bob Archuleta and Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, joined by representatives from the California Association of County Veterans Services Officers (CACVSO), emphasized the importance of safeguarding veterans from unaccredited entities that charge for services veterans should receive for free. SB 694 aims to make access easier and safer by protecting veterans from predatory actors, commonly referred to as “claim sharks,” who exploit those seeking help. In California, veterans and their families can get assistance with their claims free of charge from CVSOs, as well as other accredited veterans service organizations.
Prohibiting unaccredited entities from charging a veteran for help with an initial benefits claim not only protects veterans, but it also ensures that counties continue to play a crucial role in connecting veterans with benefits and services available to them. Counties often collaborate with federal and state agencies, as well as local nonprofit organizations, to ensure that veterans are aware of and have access to the benefits they are entitled to. By working with veterans and their families, counties can ensure that those who have served their country receive the support and assistance they deserve.
Please join us in supporting SB 694 to protect veterans from unethical practices that exploit vulnerable veterans.
Click here to download our template SUPPORT letter for SB 694 (Archuleta).
If you have any questions, please contact Emma Jungwirth, CSAC Senior Legislative Advocate, at (ejungwirth@counties.org) and Julissa Ceja Cardenas, Legislative Analyst, at (jcejacardenas@counties.org).