Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick on Senate Passage of PACT Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick released the statement below following the Senate passage of the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 which revises his Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act Of 2021 or Honoring Our PACT Act, which originated in the House of Representatives as H.R. 3967:
 
“When we sent our servicemembers into harm’s way, we made a pact to care for them—and pay for that care—when they came home. For too long, Congress and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) have been slow to act citing high cost or lack of science. The result – a disability benefit claims process that is cumbersome and places the burden to prove toxic exposure on veterans themselves. 
 
“Health impacts from these exposures vary from unexplained chronic multi-symptom illnesses to cancers, infertility, and respiratory conditions. The Honoring our PACT Act, which has passed the Senate, is comprehensive legislation that will make good on our promise by addressing the full gamut of issues impacting toxic exposed veterans’ access to earned benefits and care. Veterans have already sacrificed so much—they shouldn’t have to fight their country to make sure it honors this sacred pact.
 
“A few months ago, the House of Representatives took the historic first step of passing the Honoring Our PACT Act and moved closer to delivering the most comprehensive legislation to date. I am excited that the Senate has now done its part by passing the bill with some additional revisions to benefit veterans.  
 
“This bill expands access to healthcare and disability benefits for millions of veterans exposed to toxic substances during their time in service – ensuring we finally make good on our country’s promise to toxic-exposed veterans. It is the only bill that will address the long-term health effects that millions of veterans – from Vietnam to Afghanistan – have lived with for years. These veterans have waited too long for the care and benefits they deserve – they shouldn’t be made to wait any longer.”