H.R.3639 - Veterans Exposed to Toxic PFAS Act; VET PFAS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3639, the Veterans Exposed to Toxic PFAS Act, aims to provide healthcare and benefits to veterans and their families who were stationed at military installations where they were exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The bill amends Title 38 of the United States Code to include provisions for hospital care and medical services for veterans and their dependents exposed to PFAS. It also establishes a presumption of service connection for certain veterans exposed to these substances, facilitating access to disability benefits.
Expected Effects
This bill would expand healthcare access for veterans and their families affected by PFAS exposure at military installations. It would also streamline the process for veterans to receive disability benefits by establishing a presumption of service connection for certain illnesses linked to PFAS exposure. The bill also mandates annual reports on the care and services provided under these new provisions.
Potential Benefits
- Provides healthcare to veterans and their families exposed to PFAS.
- Establishes presumption of service connection, easing access to benefits.
- Addresses specific health conditions linked to PFAS exposure, such as high cholesterol, ulcerative colitis, thyroid disease, testicular cancer, kidney cancer, and pregnancy-induced hypertension.
- Requires annual reports to Congress on the care and services provided.
- Extends benefits to family members who resided at affected military installations or were in utero during the mother's residence.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) resources due to increased demand for healthcare and benefits.
- The bill relies on future appropriations, which may be subject to political and budgetary constraints.
- Determining the extent of PFAS exposure and its direct link to specific illnesses could be complex and time-consuming.
- The limitation on healthcare for family members if the illness is found to have resulted from a cause other than the residence at the military installation.
- The bill requires exhaustion of all third-party claims before reimbursement, adding administrative burden.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). By addressing the healthcare needs of veterans and their families exposed to toxic substances during their service, the bill fulfills the government's responsibility to care for those who have served in the military. The legislative power to enact such provisions is vested in Congress under Article I, Section 8, which grants the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).