In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant initiatives aimed at honoring Vietnam War veterans and protecting them from predatory practices. A resolution is being sought from the state legislature to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War in 2025, with a focus on recognizing all who served during that era, including those who supported the war from various capacities. The resolution aims to ensure that all veterans, regardless of their service type, are treated equally.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the introduction of the Guard Act, legislation designed to combat exploitation of veterans by unscrupulous individuals, often referred to as \"sharks.\" These individuals have been known to charge veterans exorbitant fees for assistance in applying for benefits, despite free services being available through organizations like the American Legion and the VFW. The proposed Guard Act seeks to reinstate penalties for such predatory practices, which had been removed in previous legislation. Under the new provisions, offenders could face fines and imprisonment for exploiting veterans.

The discussions underscored a commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of veterans, ensuring they receive the benefits they are entitled to without the burden of financial exploitation. Eight states have already enacted similar laws to protect veterans from these predatory practices, reflecting a growing movement to address this critical issue.