PACT ACT Press Event at OSDRI
VA Providence Director Lawrence Connell joined Rhode Island Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Jack Reed at a PACT Act event in Johnston, RI on Thursday, January 4th, 2024.
The event was hosted by Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI), a nonprofit organization that assists homeless and at-risk Veterans in the state.
The PACT Act, or the Presumptive Conditions and Toxic Exposure Act, is a landmark legislation that expands health care and benefits for Veterans who were exposed to toxic substances during their service. The PACT Act covers Veterans who served in Afghanistan, Iraq, Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Uzbekistan, Yemen, and the airspace above these locations since September 11, 2001. The PACT Act also adds new presumptive conditions for Veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange, burn pits, and other hazards.
Director Connell praised the PACT Act as a historic achievement for Veterans and thanked Senators Whitehouse and Reed for their leadership and support. He also encouraged Veterans who may be eligible for the PACT Act to contact VA Providence for assistance. Senators Whitehouse and Reed expressed their gratitude to Director Connell and OSDRI for their service to Veterans and vowed to continue working to ensure that Veterans receive the care and benefits they deserve.