LAS VEGAS & COLUMBIA, S.C., May 28, 2026 – South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster signed Senate Bill 695 into law on Tuesday, May 19, establishing new consumer protection standards for matters related to Veterans’ benefits. This marks an important victory for Veterans in the Palmetto State. The legislation strengthens protections for Veterans and their families by safeguarding them from predatory practices targeting Veterans’ earned benefits.
Supporters of the legislation praised the bipartisan effort behind the bill and recognized the leaders who worked tirelessly to move it across the finish line.
“Across the country, states are recognizing that Veterans should have a choice in accessing disability benefits support,” said Josh Smith, CEO and co-founder of VBG.
Advocates say the new law reinforces South Carolina’s longstanding commitment to being one of the most Veteran-friendly states in the nation and sends a clear message that Veterans will be protected from bad actors seeking to exploit them.
“Protecting Veterans and preserving access to professional benefits assistance are not competing ideas,” Smith said. “We’re encouraged that South Carolina lawmakers recognized that Veterans deserve both.”
VBG recognizes Sen. Tom Young, Jr. and Rep. Brandon Cox for their leadership, as well as Secretary Todd McCaffrey and the South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs for the continued partnership.
South Carolina joins a growing number of states advancing similar policies aimed at strengthening consumer protections while preserving Veteran choice in navigating a complex benefits system.
SB 695 took effect upon Gov. McMaster’s approval, providing Veterans with immediate support.
About Veteran Benefits Guide
Veteran Benefits Guide 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.
Contact
Safe Sammons
ssammons@vbg.com
702-478-0166