President Joe Biden signed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 into law on Wednesday, August 10, marking a significant step towards addressing the harm caused by decades of contaminated drinking water on the Marine Corps base in North Carolina.
The act is a vital component of the Honoring Our Pact Act of 2022, which stands as the most comprehensive toxic exposure legislation ever passed for U.S. military veterans and their families.
Key Points:
August 10, 2022: Law Signing: President Biden signed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, underscoring its importance in providing legal avenues for those affected by the prolonged exposure to contaminated water.
Comprehensive Legislation: The broader Honoring Our Pact Act of 2022, estimated to cost $278.5 billion over the next decade, aims to support over 3.5 million veterans exposed to various hazards, including Agent Orange, radiation, and burn pits.
Call to Action: President Biden urged affected veterans to promptly file their claims, emphasizing the commitment to expedite claim resolutions and provide necessary benefits and care.
Extent of Exposure: An estimated 900,000 individuals, including military personnel, family members, National Guard members, Army Reserve, and nearby civilians, were potentially exposed to unsafe drinking water at Camp Lejeune from 1953 to 1987.
Legal Provisions: The Camp Lejeune Justice Act prohibits the government from asserting immunity in litigation related to the contaminated water. It overrides a North Carolina law imposing a time limit on cancer diagnoses for legal action, facilitating fair access to justice.
Health Implications: The contamination has led to serious health issues such as liver cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and Parkinson’s disease, as confirmed by the CDC.
Legislative Response: Previous legislation in 2017 provided over $2 billion in disability benefits to affected veterans and families. However, many faced challenges in accessing compensation, prompting the need for comprehensive legislation like the Honoring Our Pact Act.
Eligibility Criteria: Any veteran or family member exposed to Camp Lejeune’s water for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, is eligible to seek damages through legal action against the government.
Legal Proceedings: Cases will be handled by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina, offering affected individuals a pathway to seek justice and receive necessary support.
In conclusion, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 and the broader Honoring Our Pact Act represent significant legislative efforts to address the enduring impact of toxic exposure on veterans and their families, underscoring the government’s commitment to honoring its obligations to those who served.
