H.R.530 - ACES Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 530, the ACES Act, directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to contract with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to conduct a study on cancer prevalence and mortality among active duty aircrew in the Armed Forces. The study will identify exposures associated with military occupations and review literature on associations between these exposures and various cancers. The National Academies will then submit a report to the Secretary and the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the House and Senate.
Expected Effects
This bill, if enacted, would lead to a comprehensive study on the health risks faced by aircrew members due to their service. The study's findings could inform future policies and healthcare practices within the Department of Veterans Affairs. Ultimately, this could lead to improved healthcare and support for veterans who served as aircrew.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a comprehensive study on cancer rates among aircrew members.
- Identifies potential links between military service and cancer.
- Informs future healthcare policies for veterans.
- Could lead to early detection and treatment programs.
- Supports the well-being of veterans who served as aircrew.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The study itself will cost money, diverting funds from other potential uses.
- The study may take a long time to complete, delaying potential benefits.
- There is no guarantee that the study will find definitive links between service and cancer.
- The bill does not directly provide treatment or compensation, only a study.
- The scope is limited to aircrew, potentially neglecting other service members with similar exposures.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the implied power of Congress to provide for the common defense and general welfare (Preamble). Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This bill falls under that purview as it aims to improve the health and well-being of veterans.
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).