U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), and Dr. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) have introduced a Senate resolution to designate October 2025 as National Military Toxic Exposures Awareness Month. The resolution aims to raise awareness about the effects of toxic exposures on veterans, servicemembers, their families, and survivors.
“For decades, veterans and servicemembers have been exposed to potentially harmful toxins during their service to our nation,” said Sen. Moran. “Our resolution encourages greater public awareness of military toxic exposures, demonstrates support for affected servicemembers and veterans, and reinforces our commitment to preventing future toxic exposures. We also urge the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to continue researching military toxic exposures and highlight the care and resources available to veterans and their families.”
Sen. Rosen stated, “Veterans exposed to radiation and toxic chemicals in service to our nation deserve both the care they need and the recognition they have earned. I’m proud to introduce this resolution with Senator Moran to not only recognize our brave servicemembers affected by toxic exposures, but also advocate for the care and benefits they are owed. I’ll continue working to make sure we take care of our veterans and their loved ones.”
Dr. Cassidy added, “Military personnel shield us from those who wish to harm us. Let us care for those who have been our shield.”
Exposure to hazardous substances among military personnel has occurred throughout modern history, from chemical warfare in World War I, through Agent Orange in Vietnam, to burn pits in more recent conflicts such as Iraq and Afghanistan. In response to advocacy efforts by the public and veteran organizations, Congress passed the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT Act) in 2022. Following its enactment, the Department of Veterans Affairs has conducted over 6.4 million health screenings related to toxic exposure, processed more than 2.7 million claims associated with the PACT Act, and enrolled upwards of 700,000 veterans into healthcare programs through the Veterans Health Administration. Additionally, new presumptions of service connection for various cancers and leukemias have been established under this legislation.
Sens. Moran and Rosen previously introduced a similar resolution in 2024 recognizing October as National Military Toxic Exposures Awareness Month; it was unanimously approved by the Senate.
