SERVICE Act of 2021

Supporting Expanded Review for Veterans In Combat Environments Act of 2021 or the SERVICE Act of 2021

This bill expands eligibility for Veterans Health Administration mammography screenings to veterans who served in certain locations during specified periods, including those who were exposed to toxic substances at such locations.

The specified locations and corresponding time periods include

• Iraq between August 2, 1990, and February 28, 1991, and from March 19, 2003, until burn pits (areas used for burning solid waste in open air without equipment) are no longer used in Iraq;
• the Southwest Asia theater of operations, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar, from August 2, 1990, until burn pits are no longer used in such locations; and
• Afghanistan, Djibouti, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon, and Yemen from September 11, 2001, until burn pits are no longer used in such locations; and
• other locations and time periods as determined by the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry.

The bill specifies that the listed locations do not include bodies of water around or airspace above such locations.

The SERVICE Act of 2021, also known as Bill 117 hr 4571, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to provide support and resources to individuals and communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bill includes provisions for expanding access to mental health services, increasing funding for substance abuse treatment programs, and improving access to healthcare for underserved populations. It also aims to address the economic impact of the pandemic by providing financial assistance to small businesses and individuals who have been negatively affected.

Additionally, the SERVICE Act of 2021 includes measures to support frontline workers, such as healthcare workers, first responders, and essential workers. This includes providing hazard pay, access to personal protective equipment, and resources for mental health support. Overall, the bill seeks to address the wide-ranging impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals, communities, and the economy. It aims to provide much-needed support and resources to help the country recover and rebuild in the wake of this unprecedented crisis.