Fighting for the Overlooked Recognition of Groups Operating in Toxic Test Environments in Nevada (FORGOTTEN) Veterans Act of 2025
Summary
The Fighting for the Overlooked Recognition of Groups Operating in Toxic Test Environments in Nevada (FORGOTTEN) Veterans Act of 2025 aims to expand presumptions of exposure to toxic substances for members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense, particularly those stationed at the Nevada Test and Training Range. It mandates the expansion of the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record (ILER) to include comprehensive data on toxic exposures and related medical information. The bill also seeks to classify the Nevada Test and Training Range as a location where contamination occurred, entitling veterans who served there to certain benefits.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase the number of veterans eligible for VA benefits related to toxic exposure, especially those who served at the Nevada Test and Training Range. It will also require the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to improve their data collection and sharing practices regarding toxic exposures. This could lead to increased costs for the VA and DoD, but also improved healthcare and support for veterans.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to VA benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances at the Nevada Test and Training Range.
- Improved tracking and documentation of toxic exposures for members of the Armed Forces.
- Enhanced information sharing between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Recognition of the potential health risks associated with service at the Nevada Test and Training Range.
- Potential for better understanding and treatment of illnesses related to toxic exposures.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for the Department of Veterans Affairs due to expanded eligibility for benefits.
- Potential administrative burden for the Department of Defense in expanding the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record (ILER).
- Possible delays in processing claims due to the increased volume of applications.
- Challenges in accurately identifying and documenting all instances of toxic exposure.
- Risk of fraudulent claims due to the presumption of exposure.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). By addressing the health needs of veterans who may have been exposed to toxic substances during their service, the bill fulfills the government's responsibility to care for those who have served in the military. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).