
Sen. Cathey’s “The Preserving Lawful Utilization of Services for Veterans Act” Becomes Law
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monroe, LA — Senator Cathey announced that Senate Bill 159, which will significantly improve veterans' access to services and benefits across the state, is now officially law in Louisiana. This landmark legislation, titled "The Preserving Lawful Utilization of Services for Veterans Act," addresses critical gaps in the support system for veterans and their families. Senator Cathey’s legislation mirrors legislation filed by U.S. Senator John Kennedy.
“This legislation is a significant step forward in ensuring our veterans receive the support and services they deserve without being taken advantage of,” said Senator Stewart Cathey, Jr. “Too often, our veterans are left behind, struggling to navigate a complex benefits system. Senate Bill 159 addresses these challenges by providing clear, fair, and transparent guidelines for service providers.”
The bill promotes transparency and fairness in compensation by requiring all agreements to be in writing and signed by both parties, with clear terms and conditions. Fees are contingent upon successful claims and are capped to prevent excessive charges. This approach fosters a fairer system, allowing veterans to access the benefits they deserve without financial exploitation.
The bill also addresses data protection and accountability. It prevents the use of international call centers or data centers for processing veterans' personal information, safeguarding their sensitive data. Furthermore, service providers must report annual data to the Department of Veterans Affairs, enhancing transparency and ensuring the system works efficiently for those it serves.
Read the full text of Senator Cathey’s legislation here.
Comments