BIG SPRING, Texas — The Pact Act is a law that was signed into law back in August 2022 and expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, agent orange, and other toxic substances.
Though it’s been 2 years since the Pact Act was signed into law, even more veterans across the country will be eligible for more VA health care thanks to the recent expansion of the Pact Act.
“So, in 2022, the Pact Act was signed into law, and it provided eligibility for those veterans that had been exposed to toxic exposure; in 2023, it became effective, and recently, on March 5th, it actually expanded the eligibility even more to include different combat zones.” said Keith Bass, director of the West Texas VA Health Care System.
It lifts a weight off the shoulders of veterans, like Army veteran Bri Gamez, who served post-9/11, and those who served domestically can now receive more VA health care benefits.
“I think it’s a lot of stress relieved; again, when we’re in service, all the focus is executing the mission, and now that I'm out as a civilian, I don’t have to worry about being taken care of because I know the VA is going to do that for me.” said Bri Gamez, a U.S. Army veteran.
Bass also says veterans who do not have disability claims don’t have to worry about whether it keeps them from qualifying.
“It’s important to know for our veterans that they do not have to have a disability claim to be eligible for these services. We just need them to come in and talk with us, and we’ll get them started with the process.” Bass continued.
Any veterans looking to find out more about the Pact Act and its benefits can visit their local VA facility or clinic or go to the VA website to find out more.
