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Camp Lejeune Justice Act: Compensation for Contaminated Water Exposure

This act allows individuals exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to seek compensation from the U.S. government. Citizens, including veterans, can now pursue claims in federal court if their health was harmed by this exposure. The law simplifies proving the link between contamination and illness, while protecting veterans' existing benefits.
Key points
Individuals exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune (1953-1987) for at least 30 days can sue the U.S. government for harm.
Proof only needs to show that water exposure was one possible cause of harm, not necessarily the sole cause.
Cases will be heard exclusively in federal court in Eastern North Carolina, with the right to a jury trial.
Compensation received will not affect existing veteran disability benefits, but punitive damages are not allowed.
The U.S. government cannot claim immunity in these cases, making it easier to pursue claims.
Lawsuits must be filed within 2 years of discovering the harm or 180 days after a federal agency denies the claim.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_2192
Sponsor: Rep. Cartwright, Matt [D-PA-8]
Process start date: 2021-03-26
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_2192.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-03-26.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Individuals exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune (1953-1987) for at least 30 days can sue the U.S. government for harm.
  • Proof only needs to show that water exposure was one possible cause of harm, not necessarily the sole cause.
  • Cases will be heard exclusively in federal court in Eastern North Carolina, with the right to a jury trial.
  • Compensation received will not affect existing veteran disability benefits, but punitive damages are not allowed.
  • The U.S. government cannot claim immunity in these cases, making it easier to pursue claims.
  • Lawsuits must be filed within 2 years of discovering the harm or 180 days after a federal agency denies the claim.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Cartwright, Matt [D-PA-8].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Health Benefits