WV SB658

Creates the Veterans' Empowerment and Trust Safeguard (VETS) Act to regulate who can receive compensation for helping individuals obtain veterans' benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or Department of Defense

Prohibits receiving payment for veterans' benefits assistance except as permitted by federal law, and bans compensation for referrals, services rendered before VA issues a benefit determination, or guaranteeing specific benefit outcomes

Requires all fee arrangements for veterans' benefits assistance to be documented in written agreements filed with the VA, and prohibits excessive or unreasonable fees as defined under federal regulations (38 C.F.R. § 14.636 and 38 U.S.C. § 5904)

Exempts federally accredited agents, attorneys, and representatives of recognized veterans organizations, as well as authorized state and federal employees and licensed medical professionals charging pre-determined flat rates for expert testimony

Establishes that violations constitute violations of the West Virginia Consumer Credit and Protection Act, subjecting offenders to penalties under that law