Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02), a member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, welcomed the passage of the Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2016. This legislation would support important programs at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) to increase access to healthcare for veterans, address veteran homelessness, and improve education benefits for veterans. The legislation also includes a provision similar to the Toxic Exposure Research Act of 2016, legislation cosponsored by Kuster.

“As the daughter of a World War II veteran and a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, supporting those who have served in uniform and their families is one of my top priorities,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “Sadly, at many times throughout history our men and women in uniform have been exposed to toxic chemicals as a result of their service. Thousands of servicemembers have faced serious medical challenges due to toxic chemicals such as Agent Orange. It’s critical that as we honor their service we look further down the line and identify risks to the children and grandchildren of those exposed to such chemicals.”

This provision would direct the VA to perform research on the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions of children or grandchildren of servicemembers exposed to toxic chemicals during their service. The Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2016 will next move to the Senate for final passage.