The PACT Act is a law that expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances as a result of service in the armed forces.  The law “helps provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.”  The Department of Veterans Affairs also announced that starting March 5, health care expansion to millions of veterans would go into effect, years earlier than originally called for by the PACT Act.

The Department further states that “This expansion of care means that all Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 will be eligible to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. Additionally, Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States will also be eligible to enroll.  And it includes Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty here at home - by working with chemicals, pesticides, lead, asbestos, certain paints, nuclear weapons, x-rays, and more.”

The Veterans Affairs Department is interested in making everyone who might qualify for the expanded benefits aware of their eligibility, and is encouraging local Veterans group representatives to spread the word as much as possible.  Because many of the health consequences of toxic exposure had significantly better outcomes if diagnosed early, participation is suggested even for those without any symptoms or diagnoses at present.  As the program materials relate, “Even if you don’t need this care today, you might need it tomorrow, or the next day, or 30 years from now. It’s quick and easy to apply. And once you’re in, you have access for life.”

Program administrators state that it is “quick and easy to enroll. You don’t need to be sick or file a claim to become eligible; all you have to do is show that you served in one of those locations or operations – or participated in one of the activities that could have exposed you to toxins or hazards.”

Veterans can apply at any time. This expansion of care is a permanent change – there is no deadline, or expiration date. However, the VA encourages Veterans to apply today so they have access to care when they need it.  

Nationally, information about the benefits available under the program can be found at www.va.gov/PACT or by calling 1-800-MyVA411.

Locally, please call Bob Stokes, Veterans Service Officer, at (208) 756-7352 for help with paperwork.