FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 3, 2021
CONTACT: press@iava.org

New York, NY – In response to the Department of Veterans Affairs statement on processing disability claims related to toxic exposures, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) released the following statement:

“IAVA applauds the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for recognizing the problem of burn pits. Too many servicemembers and veterans have become ill and died due to exposure to toxic substances during their deployments,” said Jeremy Butler, CEO of IAVA. 

“While the VA’s move to process certain health claims based on toxic exposure was a positive step, more must be done to ensure those who served our country have access to the healthcare and benefits they have earned. IAVA is actively working with Congress to support a holistic approach to addressing the impact of burn pits and toxic exposures and we urge legislators to pass the Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins (PACT) Act and Comprehensive and Overdue Support for Troops (COST) of War Act to effectively support those exposed.”

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.

Jeremy Butler serves as IAVA’s Chief Executive Officer. Jeremy joined IAVA with 15+ years of experience providing substantive and strategic counsel to leaders in high-profile government and private sector offices, including the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security. He graduated from Knox College with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and received a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He is a Surface Warfare Officer in the Navy Reserve. Butler regularly contributes to national media outlets across the country.

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