FL H0277

Prohibits any person from receiving compensation for referring an individual to a veterans' benefits assistance provider, and caps provider compensation at the lesser of four times the monthly increase in benefits awarded or $12,500, contingent on the veteran actually receiving an increase in benefits.

Requires providers to enter into a written agreement before rendering services, provide a mandatory oral and written disclosure stating they are not affiliated with the Florida or U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and that free services may be available elsewhere, and prohibits initial fees, nonrefundable fees, and interest on payment plans.

Mandates that if a veteran claimant dies before a claim is processed, all expected compensation must be waived, no charges or debts may be collected, and any payment plan must be immediately terminated.

Prohibits providers from guaranteeing outcomes, using international call or data centers to solicit veterans or process their personal information, using a veteran's personal login credentials, or employing medical providers to conduct secondary medical examinations of veterans; also requires all individuals who directly assist veterans to complete a level 2 background screening.

Classifies violations as deceptive and unfair trade practices under Florida law, subject to penalties including those specifically applicable to violations against military servicemembers or their spouses and dependent children; adds the Department of Veterans' Affairs to the list of "specified agencies" authorized to conduct background screenings.