Memorializes President and Congress to expand certain benefits to grandchildren of veterans impacted by Agent Orange.
Impact
The resolution highlights the substantial health issues associated with Spina Bifida, including disabilities that can severely affect mobility and quality of life. By expanding benefits to grandchildren, this resolution aims to address existing gaps in support for families affected by the adverse effects of Agent Orange exposure during the Vietnam and Korean Wars. It proposes that the financial burden caused by medical costs associated with Spina Bifida could be alleviated with this inclusion, enabling better educational and employment opportunities for affected grandchildren.
Summary
SCR41 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from New Jersey that aims to memorialize the President and Congress to expand benefits to the grandchildren of veterans who are impacted by Agent Orange. Specifically, it seeks to extend benefits provided through the Agent Orange Benefits Act of 1996 to include grandchildren diagnosed with Spina Bifida. This condition is particularly significant given its debilitating nature, often requiring extensive lifelong medical care and support.
Contention
While the resolution itself is a memorial rather than a direct legal change, it reflects ongoing issues regarding how veterans' families are treated, particularly as they relate to healthcare and financial aid. Some may argue about the feasibility and justification of expanding such benefits, considering budgetary constraints and other legislative priorities. However, proponents assert that the United States has a moral obligation to support all those affected by veterans' service, reinforcing the resolution's stance on inclusivity and care for veterans' families.
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