VET PFAS Act
12/7/2023, 5:06 PMSummary of Bill S 2294
The VET PFAS Act, also known as Bill 118 s 2294, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress that aims to address the issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in military communities. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer and reproductive issues.The VET PFAS Act specifically focuses on providing support and resources to veterans and their families who have been affected by PFAS contamination. The bill includes provisions for the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct research on the health effects of PFAS exposure on veterans, as well as to provide medical treatment and benefits to those who have been impacted.
Additionally, the VET PFAS Act calls for the Department of Defense to take action to clean up PFAS contamination on military bases and in surrounding communities. This includes providing funding for remediation efforts and ensuring that affected individuals have access to clean drinking water. Overall, the VET PFAS Act is aimed at addressing the serious health and environmental concerns associated with PFAS contamination in military communities, and providing support to those who have been affected.
Congressional Summary of S 2294
Veterans Exposed to Toxic PFAS Act or the VET PFAS Act
This bill provides eligibility for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital care and medical services to veterans and their family members (including those in utero) who have specified conditions and resided at a military installation where individuals were exposed to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS. PFAS are man-made and may have adverse human health effects.
Hospital care and medical services may not be furnished for a condition that is found to have resulted from a cause other than the exposure to PFAS at a military installation.
The VA may provide reimbursement for hospital care or medical services provided to a family member only after the family member or provider has exhausted all claims and remedies otherwise available for payment of such care.
For disability compensation purposes, the bill establishes a presumption of service-connection for specified conditions in veterans who served at a military installation at which individuals were exposed to PFAS. Under a presumption of service-connection, specific conditions diagnosed in certain veterans are presumed to have been caused by the circumstances of their military service. Health care benefits and disability compensation may then be awarded.
