WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced her co-sponsorship of legislation to allow Vietnam War-era veterans exposed to Agent Orange while serving in Thailand to qualify for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, without the undue burden of proving toxic exposure that took place decades ago.
“Countless Vietnam-era veterans who served in Thailand, including many Nevadans, were exposed to Agent Orange and have been denied the service-connected VA benefits they deserve,” said Senator Rosen. “These servicemembers deserve the same assistance as any other members of our armed forces. I’m supporting legislation to give these military heroes these long overdue benefits.”
BACKGROUND: Veterans whose duties placed them on or near Thai military bases from February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975 are currently eligible for service-connected benefits for presumed exposure to toxic chemicals. This bill will eliminate the unreasonable burden of veterans having to prove toxic exposure to Agent Orange.
Last Congress, then-Congresswoman Rosen co-led similar legislation in the House of Representatives.
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