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Justice for Vaccine Injured Veterans Act of 2025
3/25/2025, 6:07 PM
Summary of Bill HR 1671
The bill recognizes the potential risks and side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine and seeks to ensure that veterans who may suffer from related illnesses are properly cared for. By establishing a presumption of service-connection, the burden of proof is shifted from the veteran to the VA, making it easier for affected individuals to access the support they need.
In addition to providing benefits for vaccine-related illnesses, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to veterans' healthcare and well-being. This legislation demonstrates a commitment to supporting and protecting the health of our nation's veterans, particularly in the face of a global pandemic. Overall, Bill 119 hr 1671 represents a proactive and compassionate approach to addressing the potential health impacts of the COVID-19 vaccine on veterans. It underscores the importance of ensuring that those who have served our country receive the care and support they deserve.
Congressional Summary of HR 1671
Justice for Vaccine Injured Veterans Act of 2025
This bill establishes a presumption of service-connection for certain conditions that become manifest in a member of the Armed Forces who received a COVID-19 vaccine under orders any time from August 24, 2021, through January 10, 2023. 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.
Specifically, the bill establishes a presumption of service-connection, regardless of whether there is a record of evidence of the condition during a servicemember's period of service, for myocarditis, pericarditis, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, and any other condition the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) determines is warranted based on a positive association with the COVID-19 vaccine. Under the bill, if the VA determines an additional condition should be specified, it must submit a notice of such determination to Congress.
The VA must also report to Congress every 60 days for four years regarding claims for compensation related to a condition associated with the COVID-19 vaccine. Such reports must be made publicly available.
