Jacksonville, North Carolina, is home to Camp Lejeune, a military training facility. From 1953 through 1978, there was serious water contamination there. Anyone who lived in that area during this period is eligible to file a Camp Lejeune claim and receive compensation. Individuals who plan to file a claim for the Camp Lejeune lawsuit need to act fast, though. This is because the window for filing is limited.
Deadline to File a Camp Lejeune Claim
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act was signed into law on August 10, 2022. As per the act, people will have a two-year window to submit the claim forms. In other words, this means that the deadline for filing is August 9, 2024. Even though it may seem like a lot of time to act, the legal process is very lengthy, and the sooner individuals submit their claims, the better. Also, the sooner one submits, the sooner their payout will be.
Who Can File a Claim?
There are some precise criteria one must satisfy in order to be able to file a claim. These conditions fall under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022. Based on the new law, the following parties are qualified to take legal action:
- Anyone who resided at Camp Lejeune for at least one month between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, including military members and their families.
- Anyone who spent at least one month working at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, including civilians.
- Anybody who spent at least 30 days “otherwise exposed” to Camp Lejeune’s water between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987.
For a stronger case, people with proof of harm will need to provide said proof. This includes the health conditions listed by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Even though people who were diagnosed with one of the presumed VA conditions have a much better shot at having a valid case, those who have suffered other losses are still urged to file a claim.
Many people have experienced emotional distress, learning problems, and behavioral issues because of the contamination. Others have experienced severe symptoms of mental illness and PTSD. All of these people are very much urged to submit a claim and request compensation for damages and pain.
The Justice Act of 2022
The water at Camp Lejeune was found to be full of many toxic chemicals. TCE, PCE, vinyl chloride, benzene, and more were found in the water after testing it. These substances had a wide range of negative consequences for the Camp Lejeune population that was exposed to them. These people have been requesting reparations for years. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act was finally signed by President Biden and passed.
As per this law, people affected by the water contamination can sue for compensation. This law also expands VA benefits for many. Qualified veterans (who were not dishonorably discharged) can file for health care benefits if they were exposed to the toxic water or other harmful substances during their years of service. As for the VA benefits claim, veterans can either file one online or in person. To do so, visit VA.gov or a VA office in person.