Stronger consumer fraud protections for veterans signed into law, thanks to Porfirio and Kifowit

SPRINGFIELD - To protect our nation's veterans from predatory business practices, State Senator Mike Porfirio and State Representative Stephanie Kifowit championed a new law combating businesses using deceptive practices to target veterans and their benefits.

"Our veterans are true American heroes and they deserve to have protections in all facets of their lives, especially when it comes to their hard-earned benefits," said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township), a U.S. Navy veteran. "By protecting our veterans from exploitation, we're making certain they have the support and respect they deserve and taking a crucial step forward in honoring their dedicated service."

Often-unaccredited businesses offer misleading advice, including guaranteeing an increased disability rating or percentage increase, advertising expedited VA's claim decisions and more. Additionally, the companies will attempt to take advantage of individuals by requesting login credentials to access a veteran's personal information through secure VA websites.

To ensure transparency regarding these deceptive businesses' lack of VA accreditation, the new law requires these entities to disclose that their businesses are neither endorsed by nor affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The additional protection means veterans will be better informed about the services offered to them, reducing the risk of misleading or fraudulent advice. The goal is to protect veterans from these deceptive practices and establish a more secure environment when they are seeking assistance related to their veteran or military benefits.

"SB 3479 is now law, marking a critical step in safeguarding my fellow Veterans and military families from deceptive practices," stated Kifowit (D-Oswego), a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. "By expanding the types of services protected and requiring clear disclosures, we ensure that veterans are fully informed before engaging with any service provider. This law will prevent predatory 'claim sharks' from exploiting our Veterans and their families, offering them the protection and respect they deserve. It is our duty to uphold the integrity of the services provided to those who have served our country."

"Consumer education is key to preventing fraud and identifying bad actors who look to exploit and take advantage of Illinoisans," Attorney General Kwame Raoul said. "We owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served our nation, and my office is committed to connecting service members, veterans and their families with support and services they need. I thank Representative Kifowit and Senator Porfirio for working to further expand protections for veterans and their families."

Senate Bill 3479 was signed into law on Tuesday and goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.