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By: FEDweek StaffMore than three million veterans have been screened for illnesses related to toxic exposure while on active duty since the PACT Act was signed into law last August. Under it, veterans who were exposed to toxins while serving in uniform are being guaranteed service connection status for any maladies related to such exposure.
The Department of Veterans Affairs has handled more than 500,000 toxic-exposure claims related to the PACT Act. The department is urging any veterans who believe they meet eligibility criteria to file a claim or state that they intend to do so. Most applicants whose requests are granted will have their benefits backdated to last August 10, when the law took effect.
Have you been exposed to a toxic substance during your service? If so, you may be eligible for VA benefits, even if you have been turned down in the past, and it is important for you to apply now.
The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. The PACT Act adds to the list of health conditions that we assume (or “presume”) are caused by exposure to these substances. This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.
– VA.gov
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