More veterans across the United States are now eligible for expanded health care services related to potential exposure from toxic materials. The PACT (Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics) Act, originally aimed at assisting veterans who were exposed to things like burn pits and Agent Orange in Vietnam, but now covers toxic exposures in just about any location.
Rep. Joe Morelle (D-25), along with other local officials and representatives of the Finger Lakes VA, gathered in downtown Rochester on Monday to discuss another phase of the PACT Act that is set to come into effect this month. Jason Richards, an Outreach Program Coordinator with the VA, explained that the full implementation of the legislation means that veterans who may have health issues due to exposure to toxins will now be covered in a wide variety of situations.
Richards stated that the legislation now allows for veterans to discuss toxic exposures regardless of where they were located, even outside of combat zones. This expansion could help more veterans become eligible for VA health care services. Morelle expressed his gratitude towards the Veterans Administration for approving the implementation of the new health coverage sooner than expected. He emphasized the importance of veterans receiving the benefits they deserve, as exposure to toxins can also impact their family members.
There are likely thousands of veterans in the Finger Lakes region, and even more nationwide, who can benefit from these new regulations. Morelle and local VA representatives are working on spreading the word to veterans who may be eligible for healthcare coverage under the new law. Additional information can be found on the VA’s website.
