Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Ron Kind voted for the bipartisan Honoring our PACT Act. This legislation will broaden the definition of toxic exposure, expand access to comprehensive health care services for potentially as many as 3.5 million veterans exposed to airborne hazards and burn pits, and strengthen benefits for veterans who were exposed to toxic substances during their service.
“Our veterans served with honor and deserve the very best we have to offer. After being exposed to toxins and environmental hazards while serving our country, far too many of our veterans are experiencing delays in receiving the critical care they need,” said Rep. Ron Kind. “That’s why today, I was proud to vote for the Honoring our PACT Act to help ensure 3.5 million toxic-exposed veterans can receive the health care services and benefits they’ve earned.”
The Honoring our PACT Act will:
- Provide health care for potentially as many as 3.5 million veterans exposed to airborne hazards and burn pits
- Streamline VA’s review process
- Finally concede exposure to airborne hazards and burn pits
- Require medical exams and opinions for veterans with toxic exposure disability claims
- Establish a presumption of service connection for 23 respiratory illnesses and cancers related to burn pits and airborne hazards exposure
- Create a presumption of exposure to radiation
- Expand Agent Orange exposure & add hypertension and MGUS to the list of presumptions
- Require VA provide standardized training & conduct outreach
- Improve data collection between VA & DOD and commission studies
