VA to Update Disability Benefits for Toxic-Exposed Veterans After Senator Tester’s Push
Veterans affected by toxic exposure are finally getting closer to receiving the benefits they deserve, thanks to new changes announced by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA is set to update outdated regulations for veterans suffering from Constrictive Bronchiolitis (CB), a condition often caused by exposure to toxic burn pits during military service. This move comes after strong advocacy from Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester, who has been pushing for reforms to the way the VA handles disability benefits for toxic-exposed veterans.
Why This Change Matters
For years, veterans with Constrictive Bronchiolitis have struggled to receive adequate compensation due to the VA’s outdated Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD). Without a specific diagnostic code for CB, the VA has been using codes for similar conditions, which often result in veterans receiving lower disability ratings than they should. This has prevented many veterans from accessing the full benefits they earned through their service.
Jon Tester has been at the forefront of addressing these issues, leading efforts in Congress to ensure that toxic-exposed veterans receive timely and appropriate benefits. His push for VA reforms gained momentum with the passage of the PACT Act, which expanded benefits for veterans affected by toxic exposures, including burn pits.
What the New Changes Include
Under the new regulations, the VA will:
- Update the VASRD to include specific criteria for evaluating Constrictive Bronchiolitis, ensuring that veterans receive an accurate disability rating based on the severity of their condition.
- Streamline the claims process for veterans suffering from toxic exposure-related illnesses, making it easier for them to receive benefits.
This change will not only provide more accurate ratings for veterans suffering from CB but also ensure faster and more effective claims processing.
Tester’s Advocacy for Veterans
Senator Tester has been a tireless advocate for veterans, especially those suffering from toxic exposure. He has repeatedly called on the VA to fix its outdated regulations and ensure that the PACT Act is fully implemented. The PACT Act, signed into law in 2022, expanded the list of conditions presumed to be caused by toxic exposure, providing critical health care and benefits to Post-9/11 combat veterans.
Tester’s efforts are a major step forward in the fight to secure proper care and compensation for the thousands of veterans who have been affected by toxic exposure during their service.
What’s Next for Veterans?
Veterans affected by Constrictive Bronchiolitis and other toxic exposure-related conditions should stay informed about these regulatory updates. The VA is expected to release further details on how the changes will affect the disability rating process in the coming months.
Veterans seeking more information on how this may impact their benefits can visit the VA website or contact their local VA representative for guidance on filing claims or updating existing claims.