Generations of Americans have bravely put their lives at risk to serve our country, and we made a promise to care for them in return. The PACT Act is a monumental step forward in fully honoring that commitment. The legislation expands coverage for veterans suffering from health issues related to exposure to burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation, and other toxic substances.
The PACT Act also extends the eligibility period to enroll in VA health care for post-9/11 combat veterans who were discharged after October 1, 2013, from five to ten years. As a result, the PACT Act makes 3.5 million veterans immediately eligible for VA healthcare. https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/02/us/poli...
The VA is encouraging all veterans who believe they were affected by toxic substance exposure to apply regardless of their discharge date. And veterans that submit PACT Act-related claims by August 9, 2023, will be eligible for 12 months of backdated compensation: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-...
All veterans deserve the care and benefits they are promised. The PACT Act goes a long way to make right on this promise. This landmark legislation will transform the lives of countless veterans and their families and move us another step forward to ensuring America's greatness is accessible and affordable to all.
