SACRAMENTO (February 2026) — Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 694 (SB 694) into law Feb. 10, strengthening protections against deceptive and unfair practices related to veterans’ benefits claims. The bill previously passed the Senate on Jan. 26, and the Assembly on Sept. 4, 2025.
SB 694 amends the California Civil Code and the Military and Veterans Code to strengthen protections during the benefits claims process, including provisions related to deceptive practices, improper fees, and misuse of personal credentials.
“Veterans earned their benefits through service and sacrifice, and they should never be misled, overcharged, or exploited when trying to access them,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn. “I applaud my friend, Senator Bob Archuleta, for leading SB 694 and strengthening critical protections to ensure veterans and their families can access the benefits they deserve without falling victim to predators.”
The legislation expands the definition of public social services under the Consumers Legal Remedies Act to include additional veterans’ benefits and clarifies that certain fees associated with benefits claims are unlawful if they exceed what may be charged by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accredited attorneys or claims agents.
SB 694 also prohibits individuals or businesses from requiring claimants to share login credentials or provide access to systems operated by the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, or Department of Homeland Security in connection with a transaction. Contracts entered in violation of these provisions are void.
Additional provisions restrict charging or receiving compensation for the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of benefits claims, except as permitted under federal law, and establish disclosure requirements for events or presentations related to veterans’ benefits that are not sponsored by or affiliated with recognized government or veterans’ organizations.
“SB 694 strengthens protections during the benefits access and claims process by prohibiting deceptive practices and improper fees,” said Jim Zenner, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA). “It reinforces the importance of expert claims assistance provided by accredited and accountable professionals, including MVA Veterans Service Officers, at no cost. Friends don’t let friends use unaccredited claims agents for VA benefits.”
Zenner also discussed SB 694 and the importance of working with accredited Veterans Service Officers during a recent appearance on the LookWest podcast, highlighting how the new law reinforces safeguards and strengthens consumer protections for veterans navigating the benefits system.
MVA operates a countywide Veterans Service Officer workforce, with accredited VSOs located throughout Los Angeles County. VSOs provide expert, no-cost assistance with benefits claims, including disability compensation, pension, and survivors’ benefits, ensuring claimants have access to accredited support in compliance with federal standards.
SB 694 was introduced by Sen. Bob Archuleta and Sen. Sabrina Cervantes, with Assembly Member Schiavo serving as principal coauthor.
Veterans, survivors, and eligible family members can connect with an accredited LA County MVA Veterans Service Officer by visiting https://mva.lacounty.gov.
Related Media:
Watch or listen to the LookWest podcast episode featuring Director Zenner:
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-protections-for-veterans-signed-into-law/id1352051443?i=1000749477404
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lat3WyxR3Rg&list=PLUWDXPiiAM-KPuj2qRPPgmXb4Do1oKeBH&index=1
Get Connected to MVA Services:
📞 Call: (877) 4LA-VETS
📧 Email: intake@mva.lacounty.gov
🌐 Visit: mva.lacounty.gov
Story by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Courtesy Photos from Look West Podcast
