Key Facts

• The bill would give the VA 180 days to assess toxic hazards in new combat zones.
• The VA would recommend whether service in those areas should qualify veterans for presumed toxic exposure and related health care and disability benefits.
• The proposal would require the VA to revisit overseas assignments at least every five years.
• The bill would add Iran as a covered combat zone, citing possible environmental hazards but no specific identified threat.
• The article says there is no clear current process for adding new combat zones to the existing list of more than a dozen countries and territories.
• The 2022 PACT Act expanded VA health care and disability benefits for veterans, including those exposed to burn pits.
• The Congressional Budget Office projected nearly $280 billion in new spending over a decade for the PACT Act.