Message from Oregon's Senator, Jeff Merkley:

For years, I have raised the alarm about the risks toxic exposures have posed to the health and wellbeing of our veterans who sacrificed so much for us and our country. Our veterans, and their families, have stood up and given so much for our nation during their service—we must stand up for them now.  

That’s why I fought hard to remove senseless hurdles to health care for Oregon veterans who are suffering from toxic exposures by helping to pass the First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act. This new law ensures veterans suffering from the effects of toxic exposures as a result of their service—including exposure to burn pits, Agent Orange, asbestos, and other toxins—will now be eligible for the health care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve. This week is the Honoring Our PACT Act Week of Action, and to help Oregon veterans navigate through this new process, I want to make sure you’re aware of all the events and resources available to veterans who can and should benefit from PACT Act provisions. Information for these events can be found below and additional information about the PACT Act and how it may affect you can be found on the VA’s website, where you can also apply for benefits. 

Veterans Affairs offices are set to begin processing most PACT Act-related benefits claims on January 1st, the earliest date possible. Don’t wait to apply, though! If you apply for PACT Act-related benefits before August 10th of next year, then your benefits will be backdated to August 10, 2022. To find a Veteran Services Officer by county to help work through your claims, please visit the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs. 

I encourage all those eligible to get your claims in as soon as you can, and I hope you join me in spreading the word to all veterans you know, here in Oregon, and beyond. It’s time for veterans to receive the benefits and care they’ve earned.  

All my best,