Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, has a very interesting reputation. From 1953 to 1987, the water there was very contaminated. By 2022, the Justice Act was signed into law. In addition to allowing victims to sue for compensation, this law also expands Camp Lejeune VA benefits.
VA Benefits
Veterans who served at Camp Lejeune between August 1953 and December 1987 are eligible for Camp Lejeune benefits. In 2017, veterans who served at the base began filing for VA benefits. These benefits include monetary aid and health care. Also, family members of veterans can be reimbursed and are qualified to file for VA benefits as well.
Health Issues Covered
The benefits can help pay for certain illnesses’ medical expenses while also giving disabled veterans financial support. There were numerous hazardous substances present in the water at Camp Lejeune. Later, testing revealed the presence of TCE, PCE, vinyl chloride, benzene, and other contaminants in it. What’s more, all of the following are known to be caused by those substances:
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Female infertility
- Hepatic steatosis
- Kidney cancer
- Leukemia
- Lung cancer
- Miscarriage
- Multiple myeloma
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Neurobehavioral effects
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Renal toxicity
- Scleroderma
All of the conditions listed above are covered by the new law and can qualify for VA benefits as well. However, the VA presumptive conditions will have the highest coverage.
Claim Your Camp Lejeune Benefits
In order for a veteran to qualify, they must not have been discharged dishonorably. Qualified individuals should submit their claim for disability benefits either in person at a VA office or online at VA.gov. However, if you need further assistance, you should get in touch with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). In addition, you will need to submit some information with your claim. So, what documents need to be provided?
Documents you will need to provide with your application:
- Evidence that you resided on the base for 30 days or more, such as copies of orders or base housing documents, between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987. If you are related to a veteran, you will need records, such as a marriage or birth certificate. These records will demonstrate a dependent link to a veteran who served at Camp Lejeune.
- Medical records proving that harm was done on account of exposure.
Lastly, if you or someone you know was exposed to the contamination, take the first step towards getting justice today. Not only does the Justice Act guarantee benefits, but it also gives people the option to sue the state. Since you will stand to gain a large sum of money, there is nothing to lose by filing a lawsuit. Furthermore, you will not pay anything upfront. Lawyers only receive a fee if you win.