The Camp Lejeune Justice Act is a law passed by the United States Congress in 2022 that provides healthcare and compensation to veterans and their family members who were exposed to contaminated water while stationed at the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.
The contamination occurred over several decades, from the 1950s to the 1980s, and has been linked to numerous health problems, including cancer and congenital disabilities. This act is essential to providing justice for those affected by the contaminated water and ensuring they receive the care and compensation they deserve.
What is the Camp Lejeune Justice Act?
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act is a federal law that was passed in 2012 to provide healthcare and compensation to veterans and their family members who were exposed to contaminated water at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. The contaminated water contained various harmful chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and industrial solvents, linked to numerous health problems, including cancer, congenital disabilities, and other serious illnesses.
Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, eligible individuals can receive healthcare for the treatment of the conditions associated with contaminated water exposure, including reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses related to the treatment of those conditions.
Additionally, the act provides disability compensation for those who suffer from one or more of the specified conditions related to contaminated water exposure. Overall, the act represents an important step towards providing justice and support for those impacted by the Camp Lejeune water contamination.
Who is Eligible for a Claim Under the Act?
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act extends eligibility for healthcare and compensation to individuals who lived or worked at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987 and were exposed to the contaminated water. It includes veterans and their family members, civilian employees, and contractors who worked at the base during that period. It’s estimated that as many as 1 million people have been affected.
To be eligible for a claim under the act, individuals must have been diagnosed with one or more medical conditions linked to contaminated water exposure. These conditions include various types of cancer, neurological disorders, and other serious illnesses.
Additionally, family members of those exposed to the contaminated water may be eligible for healthcare and compensation if they develop one of the specified medical conditions. Eligible individuals must seek the necessary documentation and support to pursue a claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.
What Kinds of Benefits Can You Get if You Qualify?
If you qualify for benefits under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, you may be eligible for various benefits, including healthcare and compensation. These benefits cover the costs of medical treatment and other expenses related to the conditions associated with contaminated water exposure.
Under the act, eligible individuals can receive healthcare for the treatment of the specified medical conditions associated with contaminated water exposure. It includes reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses related to the treatment of those conditions. Additionally, eligible individuals may be eligible for disability compensation if they suffer from one or more conditions related to contaminated water exposure.
The amount of compensation may vary based on the severity of the condition and its impact on the individual’s ability to work and perform other daily activities. Overall, the benefits provided under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act represent an essential step towards providing justice and support for those impacted by the Camp Lejeune water contamination.
How to File a Camp Lejeune Justice Act Claim?
As per the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit update in January 2023, 14,000 Camp Lejeune water contamination injury claims have been filed since the CLJA came into effect. To file a claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, you must gather the necessary documentation and submit it to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). You can take assistance from law firms like TorHoerman Law that have been helping victims file their lawsuits.
This documentation may include medical records, service records, and other relevant information related to your exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. It is essential to provide as much detail as possible and to ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
Once you have gathered the necessary documentation, you can submit your claim to the VA. You can do this online through the VA’s eBenefits portal or by submitting a paper application. The VA will review your claim and determine whether you are eligible for Camp Lejeune Justice Act benefits.
If your claim is approved, you will be notified of the benefits you are eligible for and the next steps in the process. If your claim is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision. It is essential to seek assistance and support from organizations specializing in helping individuals navigate the claims process under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.
Conclusion
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act is an essential piece of legislation that provides healthcare and compensation to veterans and their family members exposed to contaminated water while living or working at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.
This act represents an important step towards providing justice and support for those impacted by the Camp Lejeune water contamination. It can help cover the costs of medical treatment and other expenses related to the conditions associated with contaminated water exposure.
