Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick and Congresswoman Hinson Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand PACT Act Benefits for Vietnam Veterans with Glioblastoma
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA) introduced the Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith Glioblastoma Parity Act, bipartisan legislation that would amend the Honoring our PACT Act to include glioblastoma as a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure for Vietnam veterans.
The bill, named in honor of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4) Keith Smith, was inspired by a letter Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and Congresswoman Hinson (R-IA) received from his widow, Linda Smith, an Iowa resident. SP4 Smith, a Vietnam veteran exposed to Agent Orange, died from glioblastoma—a condition not currently recognized under the PACT Act for Agent Orange exposure. As a result, he was denied critical benefits. Linda Smith now advocates to ensure no other veteran or family faces the same injustice.
“This was Keith’s wish ─ to help other Vietnam veterans affected by Agent Orange,” said Linda Smith. “Adding glioblastoma to the list of presumptive conditions as part of the PACT Act would help fulfill that wish.”
“When our veterans serve, we make a promise to stand by them—not just in war, but long after they return home,” said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL). “Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith answered that call with courage in Vietnam, risking everything in service to our nation. This bipartisan bill is more than legislation—it’s a solemn commitment to honor his legacy, uplift his memory, and ensure that no veteran is forgotten. By recognizing his sacrifice, we reaffirm our duty to all those who have served and continue to serve, and we take a meaningful step toward keeping the promises we’ve made.”
“Ensuring our veterans receive the benefits they have earned remains a top priority for me. I was proud to support the PACT Act to expand access to care for those exposed to toxic substances, but more work remains,” said Congresswoman Hinson (R-IA). Glioblastoma is not recognized as a presumptive condition under the PACT Act for Agent Orange exposure, despite mounting evidence. I had the honor of speaking with Linda Smith of Independence, Iowa—the widow of Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith, who tragically passed away from Glioblastoma. SP4 Smith served our country with pride and honor, but under the current PACT Act, he was still unable to receive the benefits he deserved. I’m humbled to co-lead this bipartisan effort to update the law and ensure all veterans have access to the highest quality care. Naming this bill in SP4 Smith’s honor is a deserving tribute to his life and service, and an opportunity for Iowans and all Americans to help save lives while honoring one of our own.”
“The Military Aviator Coalition for Health (MACH) is proud to endorse this critical piece of legislation,” said COL. Vincent Alcazar, USAF (ret.),Founder and Director of MACH. Glioblastoma claims far too many veteran lives annually. This bill is a huge step in rectifying past disparities and honoring the tremendous legacy of SP4 Smith.”
“The Invisible Enemy proudly supports the Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith Glioblastoma Parity Act introduced by Congresswomen Cherfilus-McCormick and Hinson,” said David Tilem, Executive Director of the Invisible Enemy. Glioblastoma has affected many servicemembers, whether due to Agent Orange on the battlefield or radiation at the Nevada Test and Training Range (HB 1400). We are deeply grateful to the Members of Congress who continue to support veterans by recognizing glioblastoma as a presumptive condition related to their service. These efforts bring hope and long-overdue recognition to those who have sacrificed in silence.”
The full text of the bill can be found here.
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