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Showing posts with label #AmericanLegion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #AmericanLegion. Show all posts

Sunday, June 7, 2026

Congress Targets ‘Claims Sharks’ as Bipartisan Bill Seeks to Protect Veterans from Benefits Fraud

The SAFEGUARD Veterans Act would crack down on unaccredited claims consultants, restore criminal penalties, and strengthen protections against predatory actors profiting from veterans’ disability claims.


WASHINGTON | A bipartisan group of lawmakers is advancing legislation aimed at protecting veterans from so-called “claims sharks,” predatory individuals and companies accused of exploiting former service members by charging excessive fees for assistance with Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability claims.

The proposed legislation, known as the Stopping Abuse, Fraud, and Exploitation by Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (SAFEGUARD) Veterans Act, would significantly tighten oversight of the VA claims process and strengthen enforcement against unaccredited agents who profit from veterans seeking earned benefits.

Supporters say the bill addresses a growing national concern as veterans increasingly report being targeted by firms that promise assistance navigating the often-complex disability claims system but charge substantial fees for services that accredited organizations provide free of charge.

“These brave men and women earned their benefits, and it’s our job to stop any bad actors who try to take advantage and scam them,” said U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., one of several lawmakers backing the legislation.

Restoring Oversight to the VA Claims Process

The legislation would require that only VA-accredited individuals and organizations assist veterans with benefit claims. It would also restore criminal penalties for unaccredited agents found engaging in fraudulent or deceptive practices.

Additional provisions would:

  • Close regulatory loopholes used by unaccredited claims consultants.
  • Prohibit the use of robocalls and automated technologies to obtain veterans’ claims information.
  • Direct the VA to establish systems to track accredited representatives and report fraudulent actors.
  • Increase veteran education and awareness efforts regarding scams and predatory claims practices.
  • Strengthen enforcement tools available to federal authorities investigating benefits fraud.

Veterans advocates argue that many former service members are unaware they can receive claims assistance at no cost through accredited Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), county veteran service officers, and VA-approved representatives.

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James W. Thomas Radio Broadcaster | Media Executive | Creator & Host of “TELL IT LIKE IT IS” James W. Thomas is a seasoned radio executive, broadcaster, and media strategist with more than 25 years of experience in broadcasting, media sales, and multi-platform programming. He is the creator and host of the talk program “TELL IT LIKE IT IS,” a news-sports-talk platform built on the philosophy: “Be Informed. Not Influenced.” Thomas began his radio career in Detroit, where the foundation for TELL IT LIKE IT IS was developed at WWJ Newsradio 950 (CBS Radio) in 2000. At WWJ and later with Radio One Detroit, he earned a reputation as both a dynamic on-air personality and a high-performing Senior Account Executive, delivering strategic media solutions across radio, television, and digital platforms. His work combined consultative advertising strategy, strong community relationships, and a deep understanding of broadcast marketing. In 2008, Thomas expanded his leadership role at Clear Channel Radio (now iHeartMedia) in Beaumont, Texas, where he continued to drive revenue growth, client acquisition, and team mentorship while strengthening his broadcast presence. Since 2009, Thomas has served as General Manager and On-Air Host at WTLS Radio in Alabama, where he oversees all station operations including programming, sales, marketing, budgeting, regulatory compliance, and long-term strategic development. Under his leadership, WTLS has strengthened its multi-platform media presence and community engagement. As host of “TELL IT LIKE IT IS,” Thomas delivers compelling News-Sports-Talk programming built on research, preparation, and meaningful conversation. His show features interviews with political leaders, policy experts, athletes, and community voices while providing analysis of national and regional issues affecting listeners. In addition to his broadcasting leadership, Thomas maintains active professional involvement within the media and entertainment industry. He is a: Member – SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) Regional EMMY® Awards Judge – National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Certified Radio Marketing Consultant (CRMC) – Radio Advertising Bureau Certified Digital Marketing Consultant (CDMC) – Radio Advertising Bureau Content Creators Certified Radio Marketing Consultant (CRMCCC) – Radio Advertising Bureau These certifications recognize advanced expertise in broadcast marketing strategy, audience development, digital media integration, and revenue growth for media organizations. From Detroit to Texas to Alabama, James W. Thomas has built a respected career defined by leadership, credibility, and a commitment to informative, engaging media. TELL IT LIKE IT IS BE INFORMED. NOT INFLUENCED.

The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation
Founded in 1962, The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children. For 54 years, we’ve been providing access to affordable education for the children of Marine and Navy Corpsman attending post-high school, under-graduate and career technical education programs. In that time, we have provided more than 37,000 scholarships worth nearly $110 million.

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