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Toxic Exposure Legislation: A Win for Veterans

Toxic Exposure

Exposure to contaminants or other environmental hazards is a major health issue for post-9/11 veterans. Nearly all the warriors served by WWP report exposure to hazardous or toxic substances during their service.

The SFC Heath Robinson Honoring our PACT Act:

  • Extends eligibility to VA health care and benefits to veterans who suffer from illnesses related to exposure to burn pits and other toxic substances while in service, both stateside and overseas.
  • Adds more than 20 categories of new presumptive conditions related to burn pits and other toxins (VA has already recognized and service-connected over 300 individual, qualifying conditions to date).
  • Adds more presumptive locations where toxic exposure is conceded.

As of March 5, 2024, all veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving the country — at home or abroad — are eligible to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. 

Find out more about the PACT Act and VA Benefits

Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been a staunch supporter of the PACT Act since the beginning, helping build and support legislation that will entitle toxic-exposed veterans to the care and benefits they deserve.

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Warrior Dan Nevins Urges Veterans to File for Toxic Exposure Benefits

Warrior Dan Nevins was diagnosed with colon cancer years after returning home from his military service. He urges fellow veterans to file for Toxic Exposure benefits under the PACT Act, which extends eligibility to VA health care and benefits to veterans who suffer from illnesses related to exposure to burn pits and other toxic substances while in service.

Wounded Warrior Project Survey Highlights Veterans Mental Health, Toxic Exposure Concerns

The latest Annual Warrior Survey from Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) demonstrates that the effects of war and military operations on wounded, ill, and injured veterans can last a lifetime. The survey, which is the largest, most comprehensive survey of post-9/11 wounded veterans, shows nearly all WWP warriors (98%) reported exposure to hazardous or toxic substances during military service, and more than 7 in 10 were exposed to burn pits. 

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