Lawmakers have introduced a bill to fund research on birth defects in children and grandchildren of veterans exposed to toxic chemicals during military service.
Linda F. Hersey reports for Stars and Stripes.
In short:
- The bill would allocate $15 million to research birth defects in descendants of toxic-exposed veterans.
- Sponsored by Senators Tester and Rubio, the legislation would commission federal and nonprofit studies.
- Spina bifida is a known condition linked to veterans’ exposure to chemicals like Agent Orange.
Key quote:
“ ... to learn your exposure could have resulted in the birth defects, disabilities, even shortened lifespans of your own children, perhaps grandchildren, too — I don’t think I can fully imagine the nightmare of that.”
— Molly Loomis, daughter of a Vietnam War veteran
Why this matters:
The bill aims to address long-term health impacts on descendants of veterans exposed to hazardous chemicals in combat zones. These exposures can lead to lifelong health issues that require more comprehensive government-led research.
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