IAVA-backed Bill Expands Access, Benefits to Veterans Affected By Toxic Air Exposure

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 15, 2020
CONTACT: press@iava.org

Washington, DC – Today, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) assisted in a press conference to introduce the Presumptive Benefits for War Fighters Exposed to Burn Pits and Other Toxins Act of 2020. 

“For IAVA members, the data is clear: 86% of members have been exposed to burn pits or other toxic exposures, and 88% either have or may already have symptoms from that exposure. It is past time that veterans exposed to these deadly toxins receive the benefits that they deserve,” said Jeremy Butler, CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. “We thank Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Representative Raul Ruiz for their important leadership to ensure that veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic exposures will be able to get a presumption of illness for that exposure.”

The legislation was introduced by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Representative Raul Ruiz (D-CA) with input from IAVA, as well as other Veteran Service Organizations and talk show host and advocate Jon Stewart. 

In addition to a presumption of illness this bill would establish specific diagnosis criteria for veterans who have been exposed to toxins during their military service, as well as mandates research on burn pit exposure links to specific illnesses, essentially simplifying treatment. 

IAVA is the voice for the post-9/11 veteran generation. With over 400,000 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.

###