Bill Introduced for Veterans Exposed to Radiation

U.S. Representatives Mark Amodei (R-NV) and Susie Lee (D-NV) have introduced the bipartisan PROTECT Act, H.R. 9511, aimed at providing comprehensive medical care for veterans exposed to radiation and toxins at the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) since January 1, 1972. The legislation establishes a presumption of exposure for these veterans, addressing long-standing health issues they face, including tumors and respiratory diseases linked to their service. Veterans like Dave Crete have advocated for this bill, highlighting the government's previous neglect in acknowledging the health risks associated with their classified work at NTTR. This initiative seeks to rectify gaps left by earlier legislation that compensated civilian Department of Energy workers but excluded military personnel. The bill has been referred to the U.S. House Veterans’ Affairs Committee for consideration. Both Amodei and Lee emphasized the necessity of supporting veterans who have sacrificed for their country, especially from 'invisible enemies' like toxic exposure.