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Easier Veteran Benefits: Toxins Exposure Related Diseases

This act simplifies the process for veterans who served in specific areas after 1990 to receive benefits for diseases linked to toxin exposure, such as from burn pits. It means they won't need to prove a direct service connection, making it faster and easier to get help. The act also covers certain federal employees exposed to similar risks.
Key points
Veterans awarded specific medals for service after August 2, 1990, can more easily get benefits for diseases like cancers, asthma, or chronic lung conditions, without needing to prove the disease originated during service.
The act establishes a process for adding new diseases to the list of those eligible for benefits, based on scientific expert opinions.
Certain federal employees (State Department, Defense, intelligence agencies) exposed to toxins in combat zones may also receive benefits for similar diseases.
The Department of Veterans Affairs will collaborate with scientific experts to review evidence and identify diseases linked to toxin exposure.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_952
Sponsor: Sen. Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [D-NY]
Process start date: 2021-03-24
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Presumptive Benefits for War Fighters Exposed to Burn Pits and Other Toxins Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_952.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-03-24.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Veterans awarded specific medals for service after August 2, 1990, can more easily get benefits for diseases like cancers, asthma, or chronic lung conditions, without needing to prove the disease originated during service.
  • The act establishes a process for adding new diseases to the list of those eligible for benefits, based on scientific expert opinions.
  • Certain federal employees (State Department, Defense, intelligence agencies) exposed to toxins in combat zones may also receive benefits for similar diseases.
  • The Department of Veterans Affairs will collaborate with scientific experts to review evidence and identify diseases linked to toxin exposure.
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 Sen. Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [D-NY].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Health