Biden marks toxic burn pits legislation anniversary in Utah speech.
President Joe Biden Celebrates One-Year Anniversary of Veterans’ Benefits Bill
President Joe Biden marked the one-year anniversary of a veterans’ benefits bill with a heartfelt speech in Utah. The bill, known as the PACT Act, expands benefits for veterans and their family members, a cause that holds personal significance for the President.
“My son Beau went [to Iraq] as the fittest guy in his unit, and came home, but died of glioblastoma,” he shared, his voice filled with emotion. “It’s personal for my family, but it’s also personal for so many of you.”
Speaking at a Veterans Affairs facility in Salt Lake City, Biden expressed his unwavering determination to sign the PACT Act, regardless of the challenges that lay ahead. He recounted how, before the bill passed last August, he personally engaged with a group of veterans camping out at the Capitol building, even sending them pizza, to urge the Senate to pass the bill.
The PACT Act, officially named the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, was signed into law on Aug. 10, 2022. The act is a tribute to Robinson, a combat medic who tragically lost his life to a rare form of lung cancer.
Since the bill’s signing, the Department of Veterans Affairs has processed an impressive 458,659 PACT Act-related claims and has reached a record level of employees. The bill has already benefited over 340,000 individuals through expanded benefits and screenings, according to the White House.
“The PACT Act is one of the most significant laws ever signed to help veterans exposed to toxic materials and to help their families recover as well as receive compensation,” Biden emphasized.
The White House proudly highlights the $797 billion bill as the largest expansion of veterans benefits in over three decades. The bill received bipartisan support in Congress, particularly in the Senate, where it passed with an overwhelming majority of 84-14.
Biden emphasized the importance of bipartisan collaboration during his speech, stating, ”don’t tell me we can’t get things done when we work together.” He drew parallels between the health issues faced by Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans and the struggles experienced by Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange. He likened the PACT Act to the Agent Orange Act of 1991, which he had previously voted for as a senator.
“The PACT Act means today’s veterans and their families won’t suffer the same frustrating delays and denials,” he assured.
Biden also highlighted key provisions of the bill, such as the eligibility of surviving military spouses for up to $2,300 per month for life and the availability of benefits, including the GI Bill, for dependents. The PACT Act also prioritizes mental health coverage alongside physical ailments.
“There’s no difference between having a mental health problem and breaking your arm or your leg,” Biden emphasized. “And you should not be worried about asking for help any more than you would if you broke your leg. We have to make sure people know there’s nothing to be ashamed of in seeking that help.”
For more information, click here to read the full article from The Washington Examiner.
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