The Intelligencer: Boyle Introduces Bill to compensate Veterans Exposed to PFAS Chemicals

The bill would require the VA to pay for treatment for veterans suffering from illnesses linked to the chemicals, which were used in firefighting foams.

Congressman Brendan Boyle, D-13, of Philadelphia, joined two of his colleagues in introducing a bill Friday that would compensate military veterans who were made ill by perfluorinated compounds, also called PFAS. The unregulated chemicals are being found in drinking water at an increasing number of military bases, including current and former facilities in Bucks and Montgomery counties.

Called the Veterans Exposed to Toxic PFAS ACT, or VET PFAS act, the legislation would “service-connect” illnesses associated with the chemicals within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, making veterans eligible for disability payments and medical treatment.

“Veterans and their families exposed to these chemicals as a consequence of their public service deserve the full support and attention of the federal government,” Boyle said in a prepared statement. “This legislation ensures our service members and their families receive the health care they need and deserve. Just as the military leaves no one behind on the battlefield, we must leave no veteran behind at home.”

Boyle introduced the bill along with fellow Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Michigan, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Michigan.