FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 18, 2022
CONTACT: press@iava.org

Washington, DC – Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America applauds the bipartisan agreement by Senate VA Committee leaders aimed at advancing the Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. 

This legislation, the most comprehensive of its kind in U.S. history, would establish healthcare and benefits for veterans suffering from military toxic exposures by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

“I am greatly encouraged and optimistic following word that a bipartisan agreement has been reached on the PACT Act between Chairman Tester and Ranking Member Moran of the Senate VA Committee,” said Jeremy Butler CEO for IAVA. “IAVA and our partner VSOs have been working on this for years. We will need many others to follow their lead and we will keep pushing until it finally passes Congress.”

A Senate floor vote has been promised following Memorial Day by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and if it passes, the bill would need to be re-passed by the House.

Toxic exposures have had a widespread impact on veterans, with as many as 82% of veterans poised to directly benefit from this legislation. The PACT Act addresses a glaring gap in the needs of generations of current and future veterans.

IAVA is the voice for the post-9/11 veteran generation. With over 425,000 veterans and allies nationwide, IAVA is the leader in non-partisan veteran advocacy and public awareness. We drive historic impacts for veterans, and IAVA’s programs are second to none. Any veteran or family member in need can reach out to IAVA’s Quick Reaction Force at quickreactionforce.org or 855-91RAPID (855-917-2743) to be connected promptly with a veteran care manager who will assist. IAVA’s The Vote Hub is a free tool to register to vote and find polling information. IAVA’s membership is always growing. Join the movement at iava.org/membership.

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