TX HB2537

Authorizes the Texas Veterans Commission to contract with law firms or 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to provide veterans with disability claims assistance services, including federal appellate litigation before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims

Requires contracted law firms to have at least 10 years of experience in veteran benefits law, a principal owner or section chairperson with appearances in at least 750 cases at the Veterans Claims appeals court, and maintain a physical office in Texas for at least one year

Requires contracted nonprofit organizations to have similar qualifications: 10 years of experience representing veterans, an attorney with at least 750 case appearances, and a Texas office maintained for at least one year

Mandates free representation at the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims for claimants with net worth under $2 million, with no fees or costs charged to the state

Allows contracted providers to charge claimants up to 33% of past due benefits for appeals or supplemental claims following initial denial or court remand, but prohibits fees for preparing and filing initial claims