Veterans with illnesses linked to PFAS exposure would receive faster access to health care and benefits under a plan supported by Vice President Kamala Harris.
Rebecca Kheel reports for Military.com.
In short:
- The bill, supported by Harris, would make several health conditions presumed service-connected for veterans exposed to PFAS at military bases.
- Six specific conditions, including thyroid disease and kidney cancer, would be covered, simplifying access to VA health care and benefits.
- The proposal also allows family members who lived at contaminated bases to access some VA services.
Key quote:
“As president, she will work with Congress to pass the Veterans Exposed to Toxic (VET) PFAS Act, which will provide benefits to thousands of Latino veterans exposed to forever chemicals like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at military installations.”
— Harris campaign statement
Why this matters:
PFAS exposure has harmed military communities for decades, with veterans and their families facing increased health risks. This bill could offer long-overdue support for those affected, especially among vulnerable populations like Latino veterans.
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