House Passes Deutch, Fitzpatrick Bill to Protect Veterans from Scams

Press Release

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act (H.R. 983), bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) to protect our nation's veterans from targeted scams and financial predators.

Currently, it is against the law for unauthorized agents to charge veterans a fee in exchange for assistance with claims or appeals with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Unfortunately, this crime carries no penalty. Financial predators pursue veterans, luring them with false offers to expedite their claims or benefits and charging them exorbitant costs.

The Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act would impose a fine or imprisonment up to five years or both for defrauding veterans. The U.S. House of Representatives has previously passed this legislation three times: in the 116th Congress (H.R. 450), the 115th Congress (H.R. 506), and the 114th Congress (H.R. 4676).

"It is a crime to defraud our veterans; but without a penalty for the crime, pension poachers and fraudsters continue to go after those who have made sacrifices for our country and our national security," Rep. Deutch said. "This bill will finally close the loophole, discourage this predatory behavior, and protect our veterans from financial scams."

"Our veterans put their lives on the line and have endured so much for our country, and they deserve all the support we can provide them," said Rep. Fitzpatrick. "I am proud to partner with Rep. Deutch on the Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act, which will safeguard our servicemembers from targeted financial scams. I am fully dedicated to supporting our veterans and ensuring they are protected from financial predators. I look forward to the bill's swift passage in the Senate."

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