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William Collins Jet Fuel Exposure Recognition Act
12/30/2022, 5:47 PM
Summary of Bill HR 3852
The main purpose of the bill is to recognize and acknowledge the health risks associated with jet fuel exposure and to provide support and resources for individuals who have been affected. The bill calls for the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct a study on the health effects of jet fuel exposure and to establish a registry for individuals who have been exposed to jet fuel.
Additionally, the bill seeks to improve access to healthcare and benefits for individuals who have been affected by jet fuel exposure. This includes providing medical treatment, disability compensation, and other forms of assistance to those who have suffered health problems as a result of jet fuel exposure. Overall, the William Collins Jet Fuel Exposure Recognition Act aims to raise awareness about the dangers of jet fuel exposure and to ensure that those who have been affected receive the support and resources they need. The bill has received bipartisan support in Congress and is currently being reviewed by the relevant committees.
Congressional Summary of HR 3852
William Collins Jet Fuel Exposure Recognition Act
This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of wartime disability compensation and VA health care, to presume that covered veterans were exposed to toxic substances, chemicals, and airborne hazards during military service, unless there is affirmative evidence that the veterans were not exposed to such substances in connection with their service. Under the bill, covered veterans are those who worked for a cumulative period of at least two years in active service in a military occupational specialty that involved consistent exposure to jet fuel.
In adjudicating claims for compensation for a service-connected disability related to jet fuel exposure with evidence of a disability and a presumption of toxic exposure during active service, the VA must (1) provide a medical examination and request a medical opinion for service-connection; and (2) direct the medical provider to consider the exposure of the veteran to toxic substances during all military deployments and the synergistic effect of all combined toxic substances through inhalation, dermal exposure, and ingestion.
Every other year for a period of eight years, the VA must make publicly available a report related to the effect of jet fuel used by the Armed Forces on the health of individuals. In evaluating claims for compensation for service-connected disabilities, the VA must take into consideration the findings of such reports.
