North Carolina Joins Growing National Movement to Protect Veterans by Regulating VA Claims Assistance

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The National Association for Veterans Rights (NAVR) today acknowledged the enactment of Senate Bill 118, known as the Military and Veteran Support Act, following its signature by North Carolina Governor Josh Stein. This landmark law, effective October 1, introduces vital consumer protections for Veterans and their families while preserving their right to choose how they access earned benefits.

Governor Stein’s leadership in signing the bill reflects a strong commitment to those who serve. In his public remarks, he emphasized the need for action: “I encourage the General Assembly to find ways to support servicemembers and their families and protect them from those who want to take advantage of them.”

The Military and Veteran Support Act creates enforceable standards for third-party assistance providers in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) claims process. The law caps contingency fees, bans upfront and referral fees, mandates clear disclosures about the availability of free accredited services, and prohibits deceptive advertising practices. Violations will now be treated as unfair trade practices under North Carolina law, providing meaningful enforcement tools to deter abuse and promote accountability.

“This law helps ensure that Veterans are protected from bad actors while maintaining access to trusted, free-market assistance,” said Peter O’Rourke, President of NAVR, a Veteran of both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force, and former Acting Secretary and Chief of Staff at the VA. “North Carolina’s actions strengthen transparency and fairness in a system that too often leaves Veterans vulnerable.”

NAVR also recognizes Senate Judiciary Chairman Danny Britt and House Rules Chairman John Bell for their leadership in advancing SB 118 and ensuring that Veterans and their families are protected without losing access to reputable, results-driven assistance.

With the enactment of SB 118, North Carolina joins a growing coalition of states, including Alabama, Louisiana, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Florida, that have passed similar legislation in response to rising concerns over unregulated practices targeting the Veteran community.

About NAVR:

The National Association for Veterans Rights (NAVR) is a national trade association dedicated to promoting ethical and transparent business practices among companies that engage with the service-disabled Veteran community. NAVR advocates for businesses that empower Veterans with professional and transparent solutions while advancing support for Veteran-owned businesses.