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Building Back Together Celebrates Two Years of the PACT Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 10, 2024

PRESS CONTACT: [email protected] 

BUILDING BACK TOGETHER CELEBRATES TWO YEARS OF THE PACT ACT

Landmark legislation reaffirms America’s promise to its Veterans, ensures toxic exposure victims receive the care they deserve

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Building Back Together Deputy Executive Director Javier Gamboa released the following statement on the two-year anniversary of President Biden signing The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act into law:

“Two years ago, President Biden signed the most significant expansion of VA benefits for toxic-exposed Veterans in more than thirty years. For far too long, our nation’s heroes have been exposed to toxic substances, such as Agent Orange and burn pits, without receiving the benefits and health care they deserve. The PACT Act has righted this wrong, enabling the Biden-Harris Administration to expand VA eligibility for Veterans and their families to receive health care and benefits for toxic-exposure-related claims.

“On this second anniversary of the PACT Act, Building Back Together commends the Biden-Harris Administration for passing this crucial bipartisan legislation and fulfilling their promise to deliver for our nation’s service members. While no measure can fully repay the sacrifices of Veterans who have bravely served our country, today, we once again celebrate this historic step in honoring their service.”

Two years ago, President Biden signed the bipartisan Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, the most significant expansion of benefits and services for toxic-exposed veterans and their survivors in over 30 years.

  • The PACT Act provides pathways to benefits for survivors of veterans who died from toxic-related illnesses, including monthly stipends, access to home loans, and education benefits.
  • Surviving spouses with children could receive over $2,000 per month and funding toward college tuition.
  • Since the PACT Act was enacted, we’ve seen:
    • 739,421 veterans have enrolled in VA health care — a 33% increase over the previous two years.
    • Over 1 million veterans and more than 10,000 survivors have received new disability benefits related to the PACT Act.
    • Nearly 5.7 million veterans have received free screenings for toxic exposures under the PACT Act, helping to catch and treat potentially life-threatening conditions early.
  • Thanks in part to the PACT Act, the VA is delivering benefits at the fastest rate in history.
    • This year alone, the VA has processed over 2 million total claims (both PACT and non-PACT Act combined), setting an all-time record.

For more information regarding the PACT Act, see the White House’s Fact Sheet here.

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