1. (a) For the purposes of this section, the term "benefits from governmental programs or civil or military service" means any benefit, program, or assistance provided under a statute or regulation, including Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

2. (b) Unless the power of attorney otherwise provides, language in a power of attorney granting general authority with respect to benefits from governmental programs or civil or military service authorizes the agent to:

   1. (1) Execute vouchers in the name of the principal for allowances and reimbursements payable by the United States or a foreign government or by a state or subdivision of a state to the principal, including allowances and reimbursements for transportation of the individuals described in § 21-2602.13(a)(1), and for shipment of their household effects;
   2. (2) Take possession and order the removal and shipment of property of the principal from a post, warehouse, depot, dock, or other place of storage or safekeeping, either governmental or private, and execute and deliver a release, voucher, receipt, bill of lading, shipping ticket, certificate, or other instrument for that purpose;
   3. (3) Enroll in, apply for, select, reject, change, amend, or discontinue, on the principal's behalf, a benefit or program;
   4. (4) Prepare, file, and maintain a claim of the principal for a benefit or assistance, financial or otherwise, to which the principal may be entitled under a statute or regulation;
   5. (5) Initiate, participate in, submit to alternative dispute resolution, settle, oppose, or propose or accept a compromise with respect to litigation concerning any benefit or assistance the principal may be entitled to receive under a statute or regulation; and
   6. (6) Receive the financial proceeds of a claim described in paragraph (4) of this subsection and conserve, invest, disburse, or use for a lawful purpose anything so received.

History

Feb. 23, 2023, D.C. Law 24-236, § 2(d)