A new bipartisan bill in Congress seeks to stop companies known as “claim sharks” from exploiting disabled veterans by charging them large fees for help with their benefits. Sponsored by Rep. Chris Pappas and Rep. Don Bacon, the bill would ban the use of auto-dialers to contact federal agencies, a tactic used by companies like Trajector Medical to monitor veterans’ benefits and send bills without their knowledge. This practice is currently in a legal gray area, as federal law prohibits charging for initial claims assistance but lacks strong enforcement measures. The bill aims to protect veterans from these predatory practices. Trajector claims the legislation won’t significantly impact its business and supports the bill. Pappas is also pushing for another bill to ban for-profit claims consulting, which the industry opposes.
QUESTION: How might stricter regulations on companies that assist veterans with benefits impact the veterans themselves?
Bill aims to stop ‘claim sharks’ from targeting disabled vets after NPR investigation
