Kelly joins bipartisan PACT Act signing ceremony, bill supports veterans exposed to toxic burn pits

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) joined a bipartisan group of Congressional lawmakers at the White House during President Biden's signing of the PACT Act, which provides health benefits to veterans who were exposed to burn pits or other toxins while serving our country.

Kelly supported the bill as part of a 342-88 vote when the House advanced the bill in July.

"After all that our brave and heroic veterans have done for our great country, it is our duty in Congress to ensure they receive the care they need. This bill delivers on the promise that we will always stand with our veterans." Kelly said. "This critical piece of bipartisan legislation provides more money for expanded care so more veterans can receive the benefits they have rightfully earned. I am thankful to our brave men and women in uniform for their service."

BACKGROUND

The PACT Act includes the following:

• Increases disability compensation (both in amount and eligibility) and expands health care services for a large group of veterans who were exposed to toxic substances during their military service.
• During the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the military commonly disposed of waste via “burn pits,” which gave off toxic fumes.
• The legislation establishes a presumption of service connection for veterans experiencing certain health conditions related to toxic exposure.
• The bill also includes authorizations for 31 major medical facility leases and simplifies the lease authorization process.

The PACT Act by the numbers:

• 3.5 million veterans who were exposed to toxins in Iraq and Afghanistan since 9/11
• $285 billion in new spending for toxic-exposed veterans and survivors
• $14 billion investment in VA's staff and infrastructure to support services for toxic-exposed veterans
• 25 presumptive conditions eligible for benefits
• 1 year open enrollment for nay post-9/11 combat veterans -- regardless of their discharge date -- to get VA care
• 5 - At least once every five years veterans will receive a clinical toxic exposure screening
• 10 years of expanded eligibility for post-9/11 combat veterans to enroll in VA healthcare.

Additionally, Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District is home to more than 45,000 military veterans, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.