Thomas Rooney
Bipartisan legislation reintroduced by U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney (R-FL) would prevent financial predators from targeting veterans with scams that defraud them of benefits.
The Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act would take aim at fraudsters who target veterans, in particular elderly ones living in low-income housing or assisted living facilities. Those scam artists claim they can help veterans quickly secure benefits for exorbitant fees — only to render little or no assistance.
“We reintroduced this bill to ensure that anyone who seeks to financially exploit the men and women who have served our country, and cheat them out of their hard-earned VA benefits, will face a harsh punishment for their criminal actions,” Rooney said.
It is currently illegal for unapproved agents to charge veterans to help with Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) claims, but there are no legal or financial repercussions for those charged with violating the law.
The Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act, which Rooney introduced with U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL), would ensure that those who defraud veterans face fines and prison terms of up to five years.
“This bill will aid law enforcement as they crack down on these despicable crimes, and will also protect veterans, and their families, from financial predators,” Rooney said. “I am determined to see this bill enacted into law in the 115th Congress and I’m confident with Congressman Deutch we can make that goal a reality.”