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President Joe Biden announced that 1 million claims have been approved under the toxic exposure law, which was enacted to address health issues from the military’s use of open air burn pits in Afghanistan and Iraq. The legislation, passed with bipartisan support, has led to more than 145,000 people enrolling in health care provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The law, known as the PACT Act, represents a significant expansion of benefits and services for toxic-exposed veterans and has resulted in more than $5.7 billion in earned benefits for veterans across all 50 states and the territories.
President Biden Announces 1M Claims Granted Under Toxic Exposure Law
At a recent event in New Hampshire, President Joe Biden revealed that a million claims have been granted under the toxic exposure law, passed by Congress less than two years ago. This law was enacted in response to the military’s usage of open air burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Supported by both parties and advocated for by veterans, their families, and service organizations, the law has led to over 145,000 enrolling in health care provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs. As of May 19, the department has received more than 10,200 PACT Act benefit claims from Idaho, with 6,454 claims approved.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Denis McDonough, highlighted the law’s impact, stating it has brought about “tangible, life-changing differences” for veterans and their survivors. The law has facilitated over $5.7 billion in earned benefits and access to no-cost VA health care across all states and territories.
Neera Tanden, White House Domestic Policy Adviser, noted that the PACT Act represents a significant expansion of benefits for toxic-exposed veterans, including those exposed to burn pits, radiation, and Agent Orange. It’s estimated that the approval rate for benefits under the PACT Act is approximately 75%.
The Struggle to Address Burn Pit Exposure in Iraq, Afghanistan
For years, Congress faced difficulties in deciding how to provide health care and benefits to veterans exposed to open air burn pits during Iraq and Afghanistan wars. These pits, commonly located on military bases, served as disposal areas for hazardous chemicals, medical waste, and other toxic substances.
The law introduced 23 illnesses to the VA’s list of conditions presumed linked to military service, simplifying the process for health care access and benefits. Previously, veterans had to validate the connection between their illnesses and military service to receive benefits.
The U.S. Senate passed the bill with an 84-14 vote in June 2022. It was then delayed in the House due to a dispute over health care provider incentives for rural areas. The bill eventually passed the House following a 342-88 vote in July.
President Biden signed the bill into law on August 10. The VA currently has an interactive dashboard providing information about the PACT Act, and a calendar of upcoming events here.
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