Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.530 - ACES Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R. 530, the ACES Act, mandates a study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine on the prevalence and mortality of cancer among active duty aircrew in the Armed Forces. The study will identify exposures associated with military occupations and review literature to determine associations between these exposures and various cancers. The Act also extends certain limits on payments of pension under title 38, United States Code.

Expected Effects

The primary effect will be a comprehensive report on cancer rates among aircrew members, potentially leading to improved healthcare and preventative measures for veterans. The extension of pension limits will provide continued financial support to eligible veterans. This may also inform future policy decisions regarding military occupational health standards.

Potential Benefits

  • Provides a comprehensive study on cancer prevalence among aircrew.
  • May lead to better understanding of occupational hazards in the military.
  • Could result in improved healthcare and preventative measures for veterans.
  • Extends pension limits, ensuring continued financial support for some veterans.
  • Informs future policy decisions regarding military occupational health standards.

Potential Disadvantages

  • The study may take time to complete, delaying potential benefits.
  • The study's findings may not lead to immediate or significant changes in policy.
  • Costs associated with the study could be substantial.
  • The extension of pension limits is relatively minor and may not impact a large number of veterans.
  • Potential for bureaucratic delays in finalizing the agreement with the National Academies.

Constitutional Alignment

The ACES Act appears to align with the Constitution's broad mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). By studying and addressing the health concerns of veterans, the Act supports those who have served in the military. Congress's power to legislate for the military is derived from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to raise and support armies and provide for a navy.

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).