Along with a coalition of Veterans Organizations, we announce our strong support for the Camp Lejeune Justice Corrections Act (HR 8545). This vital piece of legislation, introduced by Representatives Ross, Murphy, and Hudson, aims to address critical issues arising from the original Camp Lejeune Justice Act, enacted in 2022.
Read our Letter of Support for the Camp Lejeune Justice Corrections Act
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act was a landmark part of the PACT Act, allowing affected Veterans and civilians to file tort claims against the U.S. government for damages caused by exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, from 1953 to 1987. During this period, thousands of Servicemembers, their families, and civilian workers were exposed to harmful chemicals at levels 240 to 3,400 times above safety standards. This exposure has been linked to increased risks of serious health conditions, including various rare cancers, Parkinson’s disease, adverse birth outcomes, and more.
Despite its intentions, the original bill faced unforeseen challenges in implementation. The new Corrections Act addresses these by clarifying claimants’ right to jury trials and establishing clear attorney fees in line with Department of Justice standards. It also extends jurisdiction for Camp Lejeune cases, aiming to alleviate the backlog of more than 100,000 Veterans’ claims and provide much-needed relief to affected families.
We represent Members and Veterans grappling with service-connected toxic exposure. We, therefore, strongly urge Congress to advance this critical legislation. The endorsement of HR 8545 reflects a commitment to justice and support for those who have served our country and are now battling the long-term effects of toxic exposure. The Camp Lejeune Justice Corrections Act represents a crucial step in ensuring these veterans receive the support they deserve.
