Senate approves bill to enhance health care for vets exposed to burn pits

The abrupt delay outraged veterans groups and advocates, including comedian Jon Stewart. It also placed GOP senators in the uncomfortable position of delaying the top legislative priority of service organizations this session of Congress.

Roughly 70% of disability claims related to burn pit exposure are denied by the VA due to lack of evidence, scientific data and information from the Defense Department. The military used burn pits to dispose of such things as chemicals, cans, tires, plastics and medical and human waste. The bill also authorizes 31 major medical VA health clinics and research facilities in 19 states. It is projected to increase federal deficits by about $277 billion over 10 years.

The House was the first to act on the burn pits legislation. An earlier version the House approved in March was expected to increase spending by more than $320 billion over 10 years, but senators trimmed some of the costs early on by phasing in certain benefit enhancements. They also added funds for staffing to help the VA keep up with the expected increase in demand for health care and an increase in disability claims.

Source: Healthcare Press (healthcarepress.net)

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