Fort McClellan Health Registry Act
5/11/2023, 3:43 PMSummary of Bill HR 2825
Bill 117 HR 2825, also known as the Fort McClellan Health Registry Act, was introduced in the US Congress to establish a health registry for individuals who were stationed at Fort McClellan, Alabama. The purpose of this registry is to track and monitor the health outcomes of former military personnel, their families, and civilian employees who may have been exposed to toxic substances during their time at the base.The bill aims to provide a comprehensive database of individuals who may have been affected by exposure to hazardous materials such as Agent Orange, asbestos, and other toxic chemicals that were present at Fort McClellan. By creating this registry, lawmakers hope to better understand the long-term health effects of these exposures and provide necessary support and resources to those who may be suffering from related illnesses.
If passed, the Fort McClellan Health Registry Act would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to establish and maintain the registry, as well as conduct outreach efforts to inform potentially affected individuals about the registry and its benefits. Additionally, the bill would authorize funding for research and studies on the health impacts of exposure to toxic substances at Fort McClellan. Overall, the Fort McClellan Health Registry Act seeks to address the health concerns of individuals who served at Fort McClellan and ensure that they receive the necessary care and support they deserve. It represents a bipartisan effort to prioritize the well-being of our veterans and their families who may have been exposed to harmful substances during their service.
Congressional Summary of HR 2825
Fort McClellan Health Registry Act
This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish and maintain the Fort McClellan Health Registry, which must include a list of names of those who were stationed at Fort McClellan, Alabama, between January 1, 1935, and May 20, 1999, and are seeking specified health care or benefits from the VA.
Specifically, the registry must include those who
- apply for hospital, nursing home, domiciliary, or medical care from the VA;
- file a claim for compensation for service-connected disability;
- die and are survived by a spouse, child, or parent who files a claim for dependency and indemnity compensation;
- request a VA health examination; or
- receive a VA health examination and request to be included in the registry.
The registry must also include relevant medical data of the listed individuals if they grant permission or are deceased at the time they are listed.
Individuals who have submitted applications, requests, or claims prior to the enactment of this bill must be included in the registry to the extent feasible.
The VA must periodically notify individuals listed in the registry of significant research developments on the health consequences of potential exposure to toxic substances or environmental hazards related to service at Fort McClellan. Additionally, the VA must reach out to individuals regarding the provision of health examinations and consultation and counseling services.
In establishing and maintaining the registry, the VA must consult with the Department of Defense to acquire necessary information.
