LAS VEGAS, April 15, 2026 – Lawmakers in Mississippi and Virginia overwhelmingly passed legislation establishing new consumer protection standards for Veterans’ benefits matters. On April 8, Tate Reeves (R) signed the bill into law in Mississippi, and on April 13, Abigail Spanberger (D) signed the bill into law in Virginia.
“What we’re seeing in states like Virginia and Mississippi is continued momentum for Veteran choice legislation across the country,” said Josh Smith, CEO and co-founder of VBG. “It’s encouraging to see broad, bipartisan support for ensuring Veterans are both protected and empowered to choose how they access their disability benefits.”
These states join Idaho, which enacted similar legislation on March 30, as part of an expanding national movement advancing policies that both safeguard Veterans and preserve their autonomy in navigating a complex benefits system. The actions taken in Mississippi and Virginia underscore a clear trend among state lawmakers to address bad actors in the industry while maintaining Veterans’ freedom of choice.
Lawmakers in Mississippi came together as every member of the House and Senate, who voted, voted in support of House Bill 1076. VBG recognizes Representatives Lester Carpenter, Gene Newman, Jeffrey Hulum, and Rodney Hall for sponsoring HB 1076 and advancing the legislation with a clear commitment to Veteran-focused policy.
In Virginia, SB 315 received overwhelming bipartisan support in both chambers of the Virginia General Assembly. The measure passed the House (as House Bill 398) by a vote of 91–5, with three abstentions, and cleared the Senate 38–3. VBG recognizes SB 315 sponsor Senator Adam Ebbin, along with cosponsors Senators Bryce Reeves, Angelia Williams, and Christie New Craig for their leadership in the Senate, as well as Delegate Charniele Herring for sponsoring HB 398, companion legislation in the House.
Their leadership in advancing these measures, alongside broader Veteran-focused initiatives, will deliver meaningful, long-term benefits to Veterans in both states.
Both laws will take effect on July 1.
About Veteran Benefits Guide
VBG helps Veterans navigate the complicated VA disability claims process to attain their earned benefits. Its knowledgeable and highly-trained staff guide Veterans in compiling and filing their claims. By ensuring claims are accurate and filed correctly the first time, Veterans can avoid the need for costly and time-consuming appeals, which also helps reduce the VA case backlog. Since its 2015 founding, VBG has helped more than 55,000 Veterans to file successful new claims or increase their disability ratings. A Military Times Best for Vets: Employers awardee, VBG is headquartered in Las Vegas with an additional office in San Diego. For more information on VBG, visit VBG.com.
Media contacts
Sage Sammons
ssammons@vbg.com