Requests congress to support the Agent Orange Equity Act of 2009 and to restore the presumption of a service connection for Agent Orange exposure to certain veterans
Impact
The implications of HCR127 are profound for veterans who have suffered from various health issues linked to Agent Orange exposure, including types of cancer and other serious illnesses. By restoring the presumption of exposure to all veterans who served near contested waters, the resolution aims to provide those veterans with better access to disability compensation and medical care. This change could lead to increased support for thousands of veterans who currently struggle to secure benefits because of stringent documentation requirements.
Summary
HCR127, a House Concurrent Resolution, memorializes the United States Congress to support the passage and funding of the Agent Orange Equity Act of 2009, H.R. 2254. The resolution aims to restore the presumption of service connection for Agent Orange exposure for United States Navy and Air Force veterans who served in or near the inland waterways and territorial waters of Southeast Asia during the Vietnam Conflict. This formal recognition seeks to address a significant gap in the current legislation that limits benefits to veterans who can prove 'boots on the ground' status in Vietnam.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR127 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among advocacy groups and veterans' organizations. There is a recognition of the need for a more inclusive definition of service that acknowledges the exposure risks faced by all service members, regardless of their deployment circumstances. While there is likely some opposition from those who may argue about budgetary constraints or concerns over the definition of 'service connection', the overarching sentiment favors providing justice and health support for all affected veterans.
Contention
A notable point of contention with HCR127 revolves around the historical restrictions imposed by the Department of Veterans Affairs' policies that disqualify a significant segment of veterans from receiving benefits due to their inability to substantiate their 'boots on the ground' status. The debate anticipates discussions on the ramifications of broadening this presumption, particularly regarding budget allocations for veteran health care. The resolution also underscores a similar history of bipartisan support when the original Agent Orange Act was passed, highlighting the urgency for addressing veterans’ health disparities.
Memorializing Congress to restore the presumption of a service connection for Agent Orange exposure to veterans who served on the inland waterways, territorial waters, and in the airspace of the Republic of Vietnam.
Urging Congress to restore the presumption of a service connection for Agent Orange exposure to United States Navy and United States Air Force veterans who served on the inland waterways, in the territorial waters, and in the airspace of the Republic of Vietnam and to institute a presumption of connection to employment for civilians exposed to Agent Orange in their workplaces.
Establishing the Pennsylvania Task Force on Agent Orange and Other Toxins to study and issue a report on how best to connect veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and other toxins and their families with the VA benefits for which they may be eligible.