Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act

Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act

This bill updates policies and procedures related to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care and benefits for veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances.

Specifically, the bill extends the eligibility period for VA hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for combat veterans who served after September 11, 2001, and were exposed to toxic substances, radiation, or other conditions, including those who did not enroll to receive VA care during the eligibility period.

The VA must incorporate into its existing health care screening a screening to help determine potential exposures to toxic substances during military service.

Among other requirements, the VA must also

• provide annual training to health care and benefits personnel with respect to veterans who were exposed to toxic substances;
• analyze total and respiratory disease mortality in veterans who served in specified locations on specified dates;
• conduct an epidemiological study on the health trends of veterans who served in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001;
• conduct a study to determine trends in the rates of the incidence of cancer in veterans;
• publish a list of VA resources for veterans who were exposed to toxic substances, families and caregivers of such veterans, and survivors of such veterans who are receiving death benefits; and
• report on the data quality of the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record and its usefulness in supporting veterans in receiving VA health care and benefits.

Bill 117 hr 6659, also known as the Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to provide health care and other benefits to veterans who have been exposed to burn pits during their service in the military.

Burn pits are large open-air areas where waste, including chemicals, plastics, and other materials, are burned. Many veterans who were stationed near these burn pits have reported experiencing health issues such as respiratory problems, cancer, and other serious illnesses.

The Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act aims to address these health concerns by ensuring that veterans who were exposed to burn pits receive the necessary medical care and treatment. The bill also seeks to improve research on the health effects of burn pit exposure and provide education and outreach to veterans about the risks associated with burn pits. Overall, the Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act is a bipartisan effort to support and care for the veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country. It is an important step towards ensuring that these veterans receive the care and support they need and deserve.