By State Representatives Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) and Sandra Scott (D-Rex)
(583 words)
As a state, as a community and as a nation, we owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to our veterans and their families. They have sacrificed so much to ensure our safety and protect our freedoms. However, concerns have been raised about the transparency and fairness of services provided to these brave men and women. In response to these concerns, bipartisan sponsors in the Georgia General Assembly, including State Representatives Sandra Scott, Viola Davis, Kim Schofield, and others, introduced House Bill 1323, also known as the “Fair Business Practices Act.”
HB 1323 introduces regulations governing the provision of services related to veterans’ benefits matters, emphasizing transparency, accountability and the prevention of deceptive practices in this sector. It prohibits false promises or guarantees regarding veterans’ benefits, mandates clear disclosures to veterans about service offerings and potential affiliations with government agencies and requires written agreements between service providers and veterans before rendering services.
The legislation marks a pivotal moment in Georgia’s commitment to supporting its veterans and eligible individuals seeking military benefits. By introducing stringent provisions to prevent exploitation, ensure transparency and mandate written agreements, this bill sets a standard of accountability in the provision of services to our nation’s heroes. With a focus on protecting veterans from deceptive practices and empowering them with accurate information, HB 1323 not only honors their sacrifices but also strengthens the trust between service providers and those they serve.
The legislation also emphasizes the importance of ensuring fairness and transparency in the provision of services related to veterans’ benefits matters. As a veteran and an advocate for my fellow servicemen and women, we strongly support HB 1323. Our veterans deserve nothing less than honesty, integrity and respect as they navigate the complexities of accessing the benefits they’ve earned through their service to our country.
Georgia is taking a stand for its veterans with the introduction of HB 1323, landmark legislation aimed at protecting those who have bravely served Georgia and our nation. This bipartisan effort underscores our unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of our veterans. HB 1323 sets a new standard of transparency and accountability, ensuring that all veterans and their families are shielded from deceptive practices while navigating the complexities of accessing military benefits. As we strive to honor and value their sacrifices, let us ensure that our veterans receive and protect the fairness and respect they have earned
House Bill 1323, introduced in the Georgia General Assembly, seeks to uphold the rights and dignity of our veterans while safeguarding them from deceptive practices. With the legislation being sponsored by a bipartisan group of legislators, the possibility of passage increases, highlighting the widespread support for ensuring fairness and transparency in the delivery of military benefits services. While acknowledging the challenges of compliance, it emphasizes the importance of securing the necessary resources and support for the successful implementation of this landmark legislation once it passes.
In conclusion, HB 1323 represents a significant effort by a group of bipartisan representatives to address concerns surrounding the provision of services to veterans and their families. By implementing regulations that prioritize transparency and accountability, minimize deceptive practice, the bill seeks to uphold the promises made to our veterans and ensure their well-being remains a top priority in our state. Georgia aims to honor the sacrifices of its veterans and provide them with the support and protection they deserve.
*Editor’s note: A photo is attached.
Representative Viola Davis represents the citizens of District 87, which includes portions of DeKalb County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Insurance, Interstate Cooperation, Natural Resources & Environment and Urban Affairs committees.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes portions of Fulton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as the Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Interstate Cooperation and Small Business Development committees.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes portions of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as the Minority Caucus Chief Deputy Whip. She also serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
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