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SB 694

HEALTH-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Don Harmon

SB 694 protects service members and veterans from deceptive practices by prohibiting excessive fees and credential misuse, ensuring fair access to benefits and legal support.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 694

Summary of SB 694: Deceptive Practices: Service Members and Veterans

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SB 694
Introduced: February 21, 2025
Status: Currently re-referred to the Committee on Rules as of September 9, 2025.
Authors: Archuleta (primary), with coauthors including Stefani, Jeff Gonzalez, Cervantes, and Schiavo.
Subject: Deceptive practices affecting service members and veterans.

Purpose and Intent

SB 694 aims to enhance protections for service members and veterans against deceptive practices in transactions related to public social services, particularly concerning veterans' benefits. The bill seeks to amend existing laws to prevent unfair competition and deceptive acts that exploit these individuals, ensuring they receive fair treatment and appropriate assistance.

Key Provisions

  1. Expansion of Definitions:

    • The bill expands the definition of public social services to include a broader range of veterans' benefits beyond just pensions.
    • It also revises the definition of an unreasonable fee to encompass fees related to federal veterans benefits that exceed the amounts typically charged by accredited attorneys or claims agents.

  2. Prohibition of Credential Misuse:

    • Extends existing prohibitions against accessing a service member's Common Access Card (CAC) to include restrictions on requiring current or former service members to log in or share credentials for accessing any Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, or Department of Homeland Security systems.

  3. Restrictions on Fees:

    • Prohibits soliciting, contracting for, charging, or receiving any fees related to the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of claims for benefits under laws administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, making such contracts void.

  4. Criminal Penalties:

    • Violations of these provisions would be classified as misdemeanors, thereby expanding the scope of criminal offenses related to deceptive practices against veterans.

  5. Grant Program Reporting:

    • Updates the requirement for the Department of Veterans Affairs to submit a progress report on the certification and decertification of veteran service providers, changing the deadline from April 1, 2019, to April 1, 2026.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: This bill primarily impacts service members, veterans, and their families by providing stronger legal protections against exploitation. It also affects service providers who assist veterans in securing benefits.
  • Legal and Financial Implications: By making violations a misdemeanor and voiding contracts that violate these provisions, the bill aims to deter deceptive practices and ensure that veterans are not charged excessive fees for assistance with their benefits.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill has undergone several committee reviews and amendments since its introduction. It has received unanimous support in various votes, indicating broad legislative backing.
  • The next steps involve further consideration by the Committee on Rules, with potential for additional amendments before it can be enacted.

Conclusion

SB 694 represents a significant step towards safeguarding the rights and benefits of service members and veterans in California. By addressing deceptive practices and enhancing legal protections, the bill aims to foster a more equitable environment for those who have served the nation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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