Prohibiting compensation when assisting persons apply for VA benefits in certain circumstances

West Virginia's SB 4 prohibits individuals or entities from receiving compensation for helping veterans or their families apply for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, except where federal law permits. It bans charging fees for preparing, presenting, or advising on VA claims, guaranteeing specific benefit amounts, or charging excessive fees (with federal guidelines governing reasonableness). Before providing services, any provider must secure a written agreement signed by the veteran, meeting federal fee standards. Violations would be treated as breaches of West Virginia's Consumer Credit and Protection Act. This directly affects veterans seeking assistance and service providers (like advocates or attorneys) who previously charged for such support.