H.R.3752 - Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith Glioblastoma Parity Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3752, the Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith Glioblastoma Parity Act of 2025, aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to establish a presumption of service connection for glioblastoma multiforme in veterans who served in specific locations during the Vietnam era. This presumption would apply to veterans exposed to herbicides like Agent Orange. The bill acknowledges the negative health effects of Agent Orange exposure on veterans and their families.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would make it easier for Vietnam veterans who served in certain locations and subsequently developed glioblastoma multiforme to receive VA benefits. This would streamline the process of obtaining healthcare and compensation for these veterans. The bill directly addresses a specific health concern linked to military service.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Improved Healthcare Access: Veterans diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme who served in affected areas would have easier access to VA healthcare services.
- Streamlined Benefits: The presumption of service connection would simplify the process of obtaining disability compensation.
- Recognition of Service: The bill acknowledges the potential link between Agent Orange exposure and glioblastoma multiforme, validating the concerns of affected veterans.
- Financial Relief: Disability compensation would provide financial support to veterans and their families facing the high costs of cancer treatment.
- Increased Equity: Addresses a specific health disparity affecting Vietnam veterans.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Costs: The increased number of claims could strain the VA's resources, potentially impacting other veterans.
- Complexity of Implementation: Determining specific locations and service dates could present administrative challenges.
- Potential for Litigation: Disagreements over eligibility could lead to legal challenges.
- Unintended Consequences: Could open the door for similar claims related to other conditions and exposures.
- Limited Scope: Only addresses glioblastoma multiforme, potentially overlooking other Agent Orange-related health issues.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's provision for providing for the common defense and general welfare (Preamble). Specifically, it supports veterans who may have suffered health consequences as a result of their service. Congress has the power to legislate regarding veteran affairs under Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to raise and support armies and provide for a navy. Providing benefits to veterans falls under this power.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).