news

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) voted to pass the Honoring Our PACT Act, comprehensive legislation that will provide important support and transform care for over 3.5 million veterans struggling with the effects of toxic exposure. The bill will improve healthcare coverage for millions of veterans exposed to burn pits and toxic hazards during their service, streamline the VA’s presumption decision making process, establish a presumption of service connection for 23 new respiratory illnesses and cancers, and more.

“Since becoming a member of Congress, I have met with veterans throughout my district and listened to their stories. I’ve seen men and women who fought in horrific battles and shown immense courage and bravery be reduced to tears out of desperation, pain, and hopelessness,” said Rep. Dingell. “We cannot wait another second to deliver on our promise to care for these veterans when they return home. These men and women have put their health, safety, and lives on the line to serve our nation, and the least we can do is ensure they have the care they need through the VA when they get home. Toxic exposure is known to cause severe health consequences, and veterans who have developed serious illnesses due to exposure during their service should not have to wait to receive the care they’ve earned. We have a moral responsibility to our veterans to this long-overdue bill passed and turn our words into action.”