PACT Act VA Benefits Q+A Session
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 มิ.ย. 2024
- Tune in to learn questions we've fielded from Veterans about the PACT Act of 2021, a recently signed law that will expand VA benefits and healthcare for millions of Veterans exposed to toxic substances while in the military. Get insights on this massive bill from CCK's VA disability lawyers, and learn what exactly was enacted, who can benefit, and when it all takes effect.
To recap, the PACT Act:
- Expands presumptions related to Agent Orange exposure to include Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Guam, American Samoa, and Johnston Atoll
- Adds 2 new conditions to the presumptive list for herbicide exposure
- Adds over 20 burn pit and toxic exposure-related conditions to VA’s list of presumptions for Gulf War and Post-9/11 veterans
- Makes changes to retroactive Dependency and Indemnity compensation
- Assists veterans and their families affected by water at Camp Lejeune
- Expands and improves VA resources, research, and training programs relating to toxic-exposed veterans
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0:00 Introduction
02:26 When do the new presumptive conditions become effective?
05:44 When can I expect VA to make a decision on my PACT Act claim?
08:43 Will the PACT Act cover retroactive pay from the date of claim?
10:34 What if I qualify as a covered veteran and was exposed to burn pits but do not yet have symptoms or a diagnosed condition?
14:17 How will this apply to veterans that have already been denied? What if they are already in the appeal stage?
16:47 What if I am already receiving VA disability benefits? Will this impact my current rating?
17:59 Are there are any provisions of the Act that provide for a different type of recovery than veterans are used to receiving from BVA?
Feel free to ask questions, give us feedback, or request new veterans' law topics below! And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you won’t miss future videos. Visit our website at cck-law.com.
Thanks for watching! We hope this answered some lingering PACT Act questions! Check the description for more information.
Ln
I am 100% P/T for a few years now, with a medical condition with no cure that is also service related. I was then diagnosed with Gastrointestinal Cancer while PACT Act was being discussed prior to becoming law. The VA discovered the Cancer, while having respitory issues and I was treated without paying a dime ($90,000.00) total hospital treatment/surgery. I am registered with the BURN PIT Registry, but what is filing a new case going to accomplish if already at 100%? I am not scared of being reduced as my service connection disability has no cure and Gastrointestinal is an automatic to get VA benefits. Any suggestions?
Good luck to all vets, they do have a right to their claims. I was married to a vet for 47 yrs.
Thanks for what you do for veterans. Your videos are always helpful.🙌
Great vid and stellar info tbh, explained very well. Thanks to the panel. I'm on the, HLR phase which includes appeals for conditions related directly to the presumptions of the PACT Act, and now that we are mid-year into 2023, I am hoping that they've gotten in rhythm on these claims, especially for retroactive vets prior to Aug 2022.. I know we are all ancy and anticipating but remember, every month that passes is a month more $$ collectively. (Though I know some need it NOW to help manage with the insane inflation going on - but that's another story...). Good luck fellow vets!
How about the two new presumptive conditions for Vietnam Veterans exposed to agent orange?
The first DIC application claim denied in 2013 for cancer. If approved in 2024 thus this mean we have to appeal for retroactive to 2013. Thank you.
How will this impact those like myself that was involved in the Atomic Cleanup on Enewetak and exposed to Ionizing Radiation? I believe our bill was tacked onto the end of the PACT ACT.
The PACT Act contains language about “other toxic exposures”; are Veterans able to apply for benefits under any of the new presumptive conditions and link those to Camp Lejeune toxic water? Or do the the new presumptive conditions apply only to SWA?
What about the regersty for Ft. MCCLELLAN when will that start or was it removed from final bill
As CCK have done a lot of work for veterans I think that you all should file a lawsuit against the VA in federal court serving the issues of Fort McClellan Alabama and toxins that were there to the VA on a silver platter concerning the sicknesses of veterans while stationed there. Force the VA to think more for the veterans of Fort McClellan.
I agree 100%.
On 9/02/22, a representative of Congressman Raul Ruiz advised me that you are incorrect as the has V.A. already received the funds. Incidentally, Congressman Ruiz is a member of the Congressional Veterans Affairs Committee.
that's good to know
Yeah they're lyin
I wish Ft Ord , Ca was on the bill the water and burn pita were there also !
Especially in the 80's
In October 2022 I was denied service connection for a presumptive condition. On 18JAN2023 the VA reopened that claim under the PACT act. I hope that’s good news.
Yes they do, takes years, and then while waiting people die never getting their case solved.
Recently I have viewed several sites were they give a list of other Military bases that had contanimated water, etc. .
And they also list the cancers or disease one may have gotten...Theses sites are titled as PACT ACT. So I contacted a
Vet rep today, and one said that the PACT ACT only covers Camp Lejeune. So my question is, how can these attorneys
sue under the PACT ACT. But the Rep said that I cant file a claim under the same conditions, so how can a Law Firm file
a civil suit under the same conditions..
I thought it also covered the surrounding waters... I was accepted into the burn pit registry via Arabic, Arabian, South East Asian, ect.. waters. Perhaps it's the special programs designation???
I have a appeal pending with bva since Feb 2021for cue when I retired in 1995 and was denied claim for my asthma and ibs-d. Since these are now in pact act will these be approved by judge because of that? I was approved for these two conditions in 2020 and am claiming a cue by va in 1995 when I initially was denied
File for which illness???? Please specify which ones fall under the Pact Act in the Gulf, thanks!
Service Connected CLAIMS that have been denied continuously for more information needed,knowing there's no way to get the information and buddy statements doesn't work!
I'm a Korean war vet having served from 1949 thru 1952. Came home with TB in 1952 and recently, July of this past year diagnosed with pulmonary sarcoidosis. I am presently at 70% and wondering whether I should be filing my claim early in anticipation of the Pact Act for heart related problems?? The sarcoidosis and TB are both presumptive. Being advised to file for heart related issues, Advise with an opinion appreciated??
I was recently denied by the VA for Disability because of my other than honorable discharge which is the main issue related to Camp Lejeune Toxic Water NeuroBehavioral Effects back in the 70's when I was stationed there. They said I have to get the discharge upgraded first. I have tried 3 times in 48 years prior to finding out about the clinical trials done by the CDC recently this month in January 2023. So I filed again a DD149 to have the Review Board review my discharge, and submitted the clinical studies related to the toxins behavioral effects to the brain. which is as follows:
The Department of Veterans Affairs and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have linked toxic chemicals found in contaminated Camp Lejeune water to neurobehavioral effects. In fact, the VA provides health and compensation benefits for veterans who suffered neurological effects after being stationed at Camp Lejeune from the 1950s to early 1980s.
Exposure for longer periods to low levels of tetrachloroethylene may cause changes in mood, memory, attention, reaction time, and vision.
Studies in animals exposed to tetrachloroethylene have shown liver and kidney effects, and changes in brain chemistry, but we do not know what these findings mean for humans.
The four main toxic chemicals in the Camp Lejeune water supply were trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene and vinyl chloride. According to one study published in Environmental Research, “long-term exposure to low concentrations of TCE is associated with neurobehavioral deficits.” On average, Marine or Navy personnel were stationed at Camp Lejeune for about 18 months.
The maximum safe contaminant levels for TCE in drinking water is 5 parts per billion (parts per billion). Levels of TCE in contaminated Camp Lejeune water plants was an average of 366 ppb. Levels of perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene and vinyl chloride were also far above safe limits.
Marines at Camp Lejeune could have consumed as much as one to two quarts of water an hour and showered twice per day during training, according to a Camp Lejeune report from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Symptoms of Neurobehavioral Effects
People with neurobehavioral effects typically report experiencing changes in mood, personality, attention and memory. Other neurological effects manifest as motor dysfunction, including coordination or balance problems.
Certain chemicals can seriously affect the part of the brain that controls motor function and cause tremors, ticks and even Parkinson’s disease.
Symptoms of neurological effects include:
*Anxiety
*Changes in mood or personality
*Confusion
*Depression
*Dizziness
*Fatigue
*Headaches
*Insomnia
Involuntary muscle movements (dystonia or dyskinesia)
*Irritability
Learning disorders
*Memory problems
*Motor problems (balance, coordination, etc.)
Parkinson’s disease
*Poor concentration
*Tension
Tremors
* Shows symptoms which I had and complained about at sickbay and nothing was done or researched as to the cause at that time. I was titled as a Recidivist By The Commanding General in a signed letter to JAG for my GOS Discharge, for being a "Toxic Zombie"!
Found all this out after 48 years of being denied jobs, medical assistance from the VA, because of "Bad Paper Prejudice". I want justice and to have my case cleared and made right by the review Board and the VA.
My charges that got me kicked out was as follows:
1. Not picking up cigarette Butts,
2. Not standing at Attention,
3. Loud and Boisterous Voice in Squadbay,
4. Awol twice for missing transportation back to barracks from work at the armory. Had to walk back to Barracks.
5. Calling a Lieutenant by his rank and not calling him Sir! ( Special Court Martial for this charge)
6. Improper aboutface, Officer said turn around. ( Special Court Martial for this charge)
As you can tell that none of the charges were of any criminal wrongdoing, the mental and irrational behavior from the Toxins is what caused these decisions.
My medical records show that I complained of most of the symptoms listed back in the seventies and nothing has been done! I filed for a review once again this week with what I found out recently, I have had to deal with all this for the last 48 years, still bothers me greatly! I question the mental state of all involved on Base from the Commanding General on down to Company NCO's who also were under the influence of the toxins. The CG gave orders to clean up the Marine Corps of all the undesirable Marines causing problems on base such as rapes, murders, fights in mess halls, fights in town "Jacksonville", the rioting that happened in town several times, etc. Everybody back then was acting crazy because of the toxins, thats a proven fact now from the clinical studies. This part of the Camp Lejeune issue needs to be addressed for all the Marines kicked out the Corps in the 70's! It's a shame that now I know what caused all the craziness on base and in my company. We were "toxic zombies" because of the toxic water. I was stationed in Lejeune 3 years, I saw my share of violence on base and in town. The Review Board needs to really look at the medical aspect of the effects from the toxins, not just the legalities of the charges which were brought on by toxic induced higher up's who also were not aware of their mental state in making those decisions. I know of plenty of Decorated Marines with Bronze Stars, Silver Stars, Purple Hearts, who did 2-3 tours in Vietnam who got kicked out with bad discharges which was "the easy Toxic Solution back then to do", or sent to Leavenworth for 20-40 years without ever being diagnosed for the toxins effects! Huge Injustice to us all.
I'm an 80% but with an unemployable rating. I work for years as a nuclear technician. I have 22 1/2 inches of scars in my arms from all the operations for nerve damage. I have lost the feeling in fingers, hands, elbows. 7 years ago the VA finally approved radiation for a lumbar tumor I guess I had for years. I could be mistaken, but what I read, nuclear radiation isn't one of the required toxins to apply for the pact act. Any help from vets would be greatly appreciated.
We need lawyers!
What is the 10 year rule for service connection after separation from service
I’m very glad the pact act can increase disability ratings, I just want to know, is there going to some sort of lump sum payout? Like a settlement
Back pay is the term but IDK. I'm still trying to figure out what benefits/compensation are going to be given to those suffering from the lung injury
@@parathings you know, I’ve been at 90 percent for about a year now, I just started doing all this VA stuff a few years back. I think the process is lengthy with the different appointments to prove your claims. I also think it’s necessary to prove your legitimacy backing your claims, just saying. Hopefully with this burn pit claim I can be in the hundo club …
At this time, I am 30% service connected with Sinusitis and 0% with Anosmia which is a secondary to the Sinusitis. Do I still file for the PACT ACT?
Great video
In reference to the Pact Act, since I have not been in Combat or Active duty in Kuwait or Djibouti Africa. But worked as a Contractor at those locations. Where do I stand? Would I need an Attorney? Thank you!
I don't hear about Vietnam, Korea, WWII Veterans or troops served on DMZ in Korea are eligible for Burn pits compensation. These were wars too And Medics who duties were to burn waste at the DMZ and troops who help them.
Great stuff.
What about toxic chemicals exposure at bases in the United States?
All we hear about is Camp lejeune water contamination. I was at Fort Dix New Jersey in Aberdeen Proving Grounds Marilyn and they are both Superfund sites for contaminated water and ground soil. Why are we hearing about benefits from these sites and are we eligible because of our conditions from expose here?
What about vets who served in Korea between 1967-1970? Does the Pact Act consider those vets?
I was honorable discharged in 1980 is it to late to file a supplementary claim?
I served on a Battleship in the Gulf War. We were in the Persian Gulf. We were exposed to the oil well fires. Am I covered under the PATH Act?
Yes!! I’m trying to get answers to this. Have made several calls regarding the waterway’s. See my comment above
I have a question that I'm sure other VA disabled personnel have; I'm combined 100% total and permanent and I'm registered through with the Open Air and Burn Pit site because of my numerous deployments in the AOR (including Iraq, Afghanistan, UAE, and others). I'm deathly afraid of doing anything to disturb my 100% because, among other things, my kids are going to college. My question is this- if I file any new claims for minor symptoms, do I run the risk of VA reopening my previous rated disabilities and subsequentlypossibly lowering my current rating? Thank you in advance. You all are doing us a great service by getting this information out to us. 👏 👏 👏
@Justin Gonzalez Exactly my thoughts. Much appreciated. 😊
@Justin Gonzalez , DIC would be a concerned if not rated right ? If the veteran dies of those symptoms and has a surviving spouse.
I filed hypertension was service connected but denied will filed appeal under pact act will it pay retroactive
What are the 23 conditions can you claim
I have a new disability claim being processed. I was informed that I dont need to do anything, my claim will automatically include the PACT ACT? Any idea?
What about exposure to Jet Fuels JP-4, I was a Fuel Systems Repairman From Feb 1967 to Aug 1974 and served in Thailand and Taiwan 1967 to Sept 1974. I have problems with dizziness and believe its neurological caused as doctors have not been able to determine what causes this problem .
I have the same! I was a support mechanic for 10 years in the 80's and years later I suffer from numerous neurological disorders. But of course no Dr. is really able to pin point how I get here. I worked around JP4 & JP5 all day long!
I was diagnosed with lgl leukemia. Is this type of leukemia linked to the water at camp lejeune
If a Vietnam vet gets hypertension approved and that vet was denied say in 2006, would he get paid back to the original application date.
What is the link to burn pit registry?
What if I was exposed to burn pits and other toxins while I was in Somolia?
Does this pack act include with mustard gas. My husband is deceased and I have been trying to get compensation for that I been denied several times. My husband died of lung Cancer and was in wwii Korean War. VA claims they can't find any proof. Can I get help
what do I gain if I am retired USAF in 1979 and served in Thailand in 1973?
I was just awarded TDIU P & T , I have been recently diagnosed with hypertension, I’m a Vietnam Veteran and my VSO said I should submit a claim in case a heart issue takes me out later, so it will be in my records and my Wife will be able to get the DIC easier. Should I file this one too? Thank you in advance for all you do
@Justin Gonzalez 100% P&T and TDIU so nope, decided NOT to pursue the claim. I’m a Vietnam Veteran so anything related will be enough for her to get The DIC (I believe that’s what it’s called) and thank you for your suggestion:)
I filed before the pact act was signed. I served shield/storm 90-91, and Afghanistan 2010-11. Oil wells lit on fire 🔥 in 91 and burn pits 2020-11, will the VA do the right thing? Your opinion of of course.
I also filed before the PACT Act was passed and was denied. The PACT Act came around which made everything appear topsy turvy for me, but my VA examiner is ignorant or indifferent to it. All I get from TH-cam videos are generic advice like "file this and file that" but nothing happens after I do it. I'm reaching the end of my rope. Nobody cares.
@ Mickey, same here! I filed and was denied due to not meeting the 10 year diagnosis timeframe after 5/91. I have refilled with a VSO stating I “ should” be good due to presumptive! So I’m hopeful 🤞
How d0 I start a claim? How do you apply
I'm 100% service connected I keep getting told don't poke the bear not until you've SC for 10 years. I'm getting a bit frustrated. Do I have to have a service organization to file?
@Justin Gonzalez because if there's one thing I learned in my military career it was document every little thing. You stab your toe, you document it. you have breathing problems your document it.
Say something happens years down the road and I'm not service-connected for it and it ends up being part of the condition that could have been service-connected well I'm not getting treated for it.
@Justin Gonzalez then you wanna call the VAH in Oklahoma City and inform the audiology department that they in the wrong then? I need to get my hearing aids for my tinnitus, getting denied that because I'm not service-connected for it for hearing loss.
I'm telling you there's fine print in the game the VA plays. Like in the dental clinic.
If they don't see you once every I think it's like year they kick you out of the system then you have to go all the way through eligibility again, when you shouldn't even have to in the first place.
Just because you're 100% doesn't mean everything is open to you.
I just moved to Springville, Tn. & I am 100% disabled veteran, they tell me, They are not taking in NEW veterans at this time. I have never heard of this! I need some help, what can I do??
My advice is: go back and get them to put that in writing for you, and ask them to suggest were you can recieve treatment! And of course send that letter emediatly to your congressman and senator!
SO MY 0% MIGHT GO UP TO 10% IN 2023?
Is the 10 year timeframe after separation still apply? I was denied allergic rhinitis in 2021 because diagnosis was 15 years after separation.
Thanks in advance.
I was told if it’s not in medical at separation to be considered service connected it has to be diagnosed within 2 years.
I am currently rated at 100%. If I apply for the pact act, will I possibly get additional monetary compensation or will my compensation stay at 100% because I am at the limit for monetary compensation?
Do we need to provide DBQ’S or Nexus letters for any burn pit presumptive conditions?
You should not as this is presumptive so the proof of the illness is service in the AOR during the stated timeframes.
@@davidreagan73 thank you! I have been denied so many times, I hope the PACT ACT makes the difference, been suffering with respiratory issues ever since I can back from Iraq!
I was in the Navy as Damage Controlman. Got hurt on my Vertebra by my superior as Hate Crime. After fighting over 14 Years , now finally I am %100 p&t since feb 2023. I do not have cancer, i did not bother filing for pact act even though i was in Kuwait, iraqi waters in 2007(feb-jun) i am concern this pact act might create havic in my life, open up my ratings and danger my 100% status.. What you think Brother? And is there any one has any professional suggestions or ideas?
Maybe 10 years it will take back log
So if a veteran was deployed to one of those locations and doesn't have a condition, do they still file a claim for 0% service connected?
@drakborn6032 So you think you would get 0% service connected for a non-existing condition? LOL🤣
I served multiple tours in Afghanistan and I’m currently 100 P&T, is there any benefit to me filing for PACT Act? Thanks.
@Justin Gonzalez thanks, I wasn’t planning to, but it is nice to get confirmation.
@@hiruu there’s additional compensation you can receive for this I was told by the VA when called about it do your own research or talk to lawyers get multiple opinions
If a veteran is already 100 P&T and has/had been deployed in the past ( OIF/OEF) and has been around burn pits could they still put a claim in if so is this a separate compensation from the 100% they are currently receiving and if they file will that affect their current 100% P&T
I'm in the same situation. 100% p&t, though none of the claims that formulated it, are either burn pit or gulf war syndrome related. But I do have a few listed on both this new pact list and on the GWS presumptive list.
So many questions.
Same boat, but not trying to poke the bear. Too risky!
I agree with Justin. Just leave it alone! The VA will definitely try to re-evaluate your disability contentions, in which in most cases will lead to a reduction in your 100% rating ! Saw it happen to a personal friend of mine about 7 months ago!
What about the human beings that lost their lives because of the poisonous water at camp lejeune? Will there family be made whole?
@cqmaxxout805 drama queen alert! Camp Lejune has its own VA program.
Please forgive me, I want to believe that peoples intentions are sincere, but why is it Attorney's are now getting involved in this PACT act? I mean if it's extending benefits to veterans like myself, why do we need attorney's getting involved? Generally the only reason why attorney's get involved in anything is when $$ is involved. Can you help clarify a little?
You don’t , they are trying to get there cut. I believe a law is being passed in congress to prevent individuals from praying on veterans claims.
I asked a comment 2 months ago but havent heard anything back from your firm. This doesnt help me to ask and never get an answer
I contacted you guys and you said you couldn't help me, yet you keep making videos about veterans yet you pick and choose the cases. As far as I'm concerned you failed to help me with the Pact Act.
Nothing stopping you from applying on your own, unless you have bad papers.
@@evilload I already did, had my 1st C&P exam this past week.