President Joe Biden traveled to New Hampshire to discuss the impact of the PACT Act, aimed at assisting veterans exposed to toxins. Since its enactment in August 2022, over 1 million claims have been granted, benefiting around 888,000 veterans across the U.S. The total benefits given under the PACT Act amount to approximately $5.7 billion, according to the administration’s data. The President is determined to highlight this legislative accomplishment this election year, emphasizing the importance of providing key benefits to veterans who have suffered from burn pit or other toxic exposure during their service.
The PACT Act has had a significant impact on veterans and their survivors, with more than 1 million claims approved since Biden signed the law. This has allowed almost 888,000 veterans and survivors across all 50 states to receive disability benefits under the act, totaling $5.7 billion in benefits. The law is a personal achievement for President Biden, who has expressed the importance of supporting veterans who have fallen ill as a result of their service. He has highlighted the struggles many veterans have faced in obtaining care and benefits from the VA, and has worked to ensure that the PACT Act provides them with the support they deserve.
Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough has echoed Biden’s commitment to improving care for veterans impacted by burn pit exposure. The PACT Act has addressed the issue of denial of disability claims by requiring the VA to assume that certain respiratory illnesses and cancers are related to burn pit or other toxic exposure without veterans having to prove the link. This represents a significant shift in policy and has made it easier for veterans to access the benefits and care they need.
Although the PACT Act may be less high-profile compared to other legislative accomplishments of the Biden administration, such as the bipartisan infrastructure law and sweeping tax, climate, and health care package, it is a crucial piece of legislation that has had a tangible impact on veterans’ lives. Biden’s personal connection to the issue of burn pit exposure and the loss of his son, Beau, to brain cancer has further underscored the importance of addressing this issue and providing support to those who have sacrificed for their country. The President’s trip to New Hampshire emphasized his commitment to supporting veterans and ensuring they receive the benefits and care they deserve.
As the one-year anniversary of the PACT Act approaches, thousands of U.S. veterans continue to receive additional benefits under the law. The administration’s data on the impact of the PACT Act highlights the significance of the legislation in providing critical support to veterans and their families. President Biden’s trip to New Hampshire to discuss the impact of the law further emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by veterans who have been exposed to toxins during their service. The administration’s focus on highlighting the positive outcomes of the PACT Act underscores the government’s commitment to supporting those who have served their country.
