The water supply at Marine Corps Camp Lejune was determined to be contaminated with several toxic chemicals between 1953 and 1987. The contamination has had powerful negative effects on armed services veterans all over the country, including in New Jersey. The chemicals found in the water supply included trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene and benzene. The presence of any of these water toxins may lead to, and have led to, the development of Parkinson’s Disease, myeloma, renal toxicity, infertility, cancer or other diseases.
The PACT Act is meant to address the effects of toxic exposure
Because of the long period of contamination and the large number of Marines who spent time at Camp Lejune, the victims of this situation are numerous and spread all over the United States. The federal government has advanced the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins Act to address the consequences of the contamination. The PACT Act is designed to expand eligibility for veterans to secure health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs. It would apply not only to Marines who served at Camp Lejune, but also to veterans of the Gulf War, the Vietnam War and post-9/11 troops.
The Department of Veterans Affairs is tasked with new responsibilities
The Act establishes presumptions of exposure for veterans who served around burn pits and other toxic-exposure locations. It requires the VA to give screenings for toxic exposure to all veterans who are enrolled in health care through the VA. It will cover hundreds of thousands of veterans, military contractors, and their families. Those who have suffered or are suffering from the presumptive conditions covered by the Act may have claims for relief.
It is important for veterans to assert their rights
Veterans who served at Camp Lejune or at other presumptive-exposure locations covered by the Act may be entitled to medical treatment and other relief if they suffer from conditions caused by exposure. The relief provided by the Act may allow for peace of mind and monetary recovery to compensate victims and their families.
