To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption that certain veterans were exposed to radiation and other toxins at the Nevada Test and Training Range for purposes of the treatment of certain disabilities under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption that certain veterans were exposed to radiation and other toxins at the Nevada Test and Training Range for purposes of the treatment of certain disabilities under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
Plain Language Summary
# HR 1400 Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would make it easier for veterans who served at Nevada's Test and Training Range (NTTR) between 1972 and 2005 to receive disability benefits and medical treatment. Currently, veterans must prove their health problems were caused by their military service. This bill would create a "presumption"—meaning the government would automatically assume certain veterans were exposed to radiation and toxic substances while serving there, without requiring them to provide extensive evidence. Veterans meeting the criteria would become eligible for compensation and VA healthcare for related conditions, including certain tumors and growths. **Who It Affects:** The bill applies to veterans who served at specific NTTR locations (primarily Indian Springs Auxiliary Airfield) during the 33-year period from 1972 to 2005.
It notably excludes nearby Nellis Air Force Base and Creech Air Force Base. The bill covers both ground-based service and service in airspace above these locations. **Current Status:** HR 1400 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill was introduced by Republican Representative Mark Amodei of Nevada in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
This bill establishes eligibility for certain disability compensation and benefits for individuals who served at the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR).The bill establishes that onsite participation on or after January 1, 1972, and before January 1, 2005, at certain NTTR locations where there was a potential of toxic exposure is a radiation-risk activity, therefore providing a presumption of service-connection for specified conditions. The bill specifies the covered NTTR locations include a location at Indian Springs Auxiliary Airfield but do not include a location at Nellis Air Force Base or Creech Air Force Base.The bill also establishes a presumption of toxic exposure for veterans who performed active service at such NTTR locations, including airspace above such locations. Additionally, lipomas and tumor related conditions must be considered as service-connected conditions for veterans who served at the NTTR locations.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.