Image Credit: TN General Assembly
The Tennessee Conservative [By Paula Gomes] –
The Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment (SAVE) Act, meant to protect veterans from deceptive practices under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977 passed 89 to 3 in a vote on the House floor on Monday.
Outlining various safeguards regarding third-party companies and the compensation they may receive for advising or assisting veterans with benefit matters, House Bill 0342 (HB0342) aims to protect veterans from bad actors who purposely take advantage of them as they seek help in obtaining benefits.
Sponsored by Representative Jerome Moon (R-Maryville-District 8), the legislation has many veterans concerned that it will “open the flood gates for illegal veteran companies to operate in Tennessee with very little oversight and without fear of any legal action from the state.”
The companion Senate Bill 0362 (SB0362), sponsored by Senator Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville-District 7), passed in that chamber with a 30 to 1 vote.
Three Republicans voted against the SAVE Act, Representatives Monty Fritts, Timothy Hill, and Bud Hulsey.
The Tennessee Conservative reached out to Representative Fritts about the bill and his vote.
“First, I think Moon’s heart is in the right place. Too many ruthless people are willing to charge veterans excessively for what their nation owes them. It is sad that people monetize a service that DVSO offers for free. But, that is reality and Jerome is trying to help,” said Fritts.
“I am a combat veteran and VFW, DAV, and American Legion Life member. I am Adjutant for Legion Post 50 in Rockwood. The overwhelming majority of calls, emails, and office visits by other veterans on this topic have been opposed to the bill. Even after I explained the possible benefits the majority asked me to not support the bill. So, I removed my name as co-sponsor and voted against the bill.”
Fritts, who offered seven budget amendments this year, five of which would have reduced the Governors budget request by approximately $110 million, would like to see additional VSOs provided to veterans to help with claims.
“The VA can be intimidating,” Fritts said.
“I do think, in a time that our state budget request has grown by ~59% in 6 years and our veteran services budget is shrinking, we have a priority issue,” Fritts concluded.
About the Author: Paula Gomes is a Tennessee resident and reporter for The Tennessee Conservative. You can reach Paula at paula@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
One Response
As dear Mom, RIP, oft said, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions”.