Reducing Exposure to Burn Pits Act

Reducing Exposure to Burn Pits Act

This bill requires the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment within the Department of Defense to submit a report to Congress on incinerators and waste-to-energy waste disposal alternatives to burn pits (areas used for burning solid waste in open air without equipment). The report must be submitted not later than 60 days after the President submits the budget for FY2025.

Bill 118 hr 4264, also known as the Reducing Exposure to Burn Pits Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of addressing the health risks associated with burn pits. Burn pits are open-air areas used by the military to dispose of waste, including hazardous materials, by burning them.

The bill seeks to establish a registry for service members and veterans who may have been exposed to burn pits during their time in the military. This registry would help track and monitor the health effects of burn pit exposure, allowing for better understanding of the long-term consequences.

Additionally, the bill would require the Department of Defense to take steps to reduce the use of burn pits in combat zones and to provide better training and equipment for service members who may be exposed to burn pit smoke. Overall, the Reducing Exposure to Burn Pits Act aims to protect the health and well-being of service members and veterans who may have been exposed to burn pits during their military service. It highlights the importance of addressing the potential health risks associated with burn pit exposure and taking proactive measures to mitigate these risks.