NY S09917

Prohibits any person from receiving compensation for advising or assisting individuals with veterans' benefits matters, except as permitted under federal law.

Requires written agreements signed by both parties for any compensated veterans' benefits services, adhering to 38 C.F.R. § 14.636 criteria, and prohibits compensation before a federal notice of disagreement is filed.

Mandates that persons providing compensated veterans' benefits services provide specific oral and written disclosures stating the business is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or New York Department of Veterans' Services, and that free services may be available elsewhere.

Prohibits guarantees of specific benefit amounts or levels, excessive or unreasonable fees as determined by 28 C.F.R. § 14.636, and compensation for referrals to other persons for veterans' benefits assistance.

Classifies violations as Class A misdemeanors punishable by fines up to $1,000 and up to one year imprisonment for first offense, or up to $3,000 and one year imprisonment for subsequent offenses, with authority for the Attorney General to prosecute.