Idaho Bills

Adds to existing law to establish provisions regarding consumer protection of veterans benefits.

This legislation establishes Idaho specific consumer protection standards for paid assistance provided to veterans seeking help preparing claims for federal veterans’ benefits. The legislation protects veterans from deceptive or predatory practices while preserving their right to choose how they seek assistance. It sets uniform definitions, disclosure requirements, and conduct standards for non-accredited individuals or entities offering paid claims preparation services. Upfront fees are prohibited, compensation must be contingent on a successful outcome, and fees are limited to a reasonable, one-time amount. The legislation requires disclosure of free assistance options, written consent from the veteran, and protection of personal, financial, and health information. It prohibits misleading advertising, guarantees of benefit outcomes, direct solicitation of veterans, use of overseas call centers, and the use of medical professionals to influence claims outcomes. Overall, this legislation promotes transparency and accountability while aligning Idaho consumer protection standards with emerging federal reforms.

Amends and repeals existing law to remove obsolete and outdated provisions relating to the Division of Veterans Services.

To ensure that state laws are streamlined, up-to-date, and essential for the citizens of Idaho, while best serving the public health, safety, and welfare, the Legislature approved the Idaho Code Cleanup Act, H 14 in the 2025 legislative session. Submitted sections of Idaho Code were reviewed for repeal consideration by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Task Force on the criteria of obsolete, outdated, and unnecessary. The bill removed references to the Department of Health and Welfare as it pertains to a veteran's trust held by the State. Veteran's assets held in trust by the State were moved in 2000 to the Division of Veterans Services in § 65-201, Idaho Code. This bill also repeals § 65-210, Idaho Code, which deals with the construction of the North Idaho Veterans Home (Post Falls), which welcomed its first resident February 27, 2023.