Veterans continue to file claims for benefits under the PACT Act at increasing rates two years after its passage, with more than 1 million claims approved and nearly 740,000 veterans enrolling in VA health care.
Leo Shane III reports for Military Times.
In short:
- The PACT Act, passed in 2022, provides disability benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances, covering 24 medical conditions.
- More than half of the 1 million approved claims and new health care enrollments occurred in the past year, following a major outreach effort.
- The VA has conducted 5.7 million toxic exposure screenings, and the number of claims continues to rise.
Why this matters:
This law is pivotal in addressing the long-term health effects of toxic exposures faced by veterans, providing vital support to those affected. The continued growth in claims suggests a significant ongoing need for these benefits.
