Akin Introduces Burn Pit Legislation to Support Veterans - HR 3337
Press Release
Today Congressman Todd Akin (R-MO) announced the introduction of the Open Burn Pit Registry Act of 2011, H.R. 3337. Senator Udall (D-NM) is introducing a companion bill in the Senate today as well.
Akin's bill, which is modeled after the Agent Orange Registry and the Gulf War Syndrome Registry, will create a registry within the Veterans Administration (VA) which is the first step toward helping the VA better care for those affected by burn pits.
"I have worked with a number of my constituents who were exposed to burn pits while serving in the military, and have been suffering from very severe health problems since," said Congressman Akin. "Unfortunately, the VA has struggled to help these veterans. Creating a burn pit registry is an important step to help these veterans get the care and support they need and that our nation has promised them."
Senator Udall (D-NM), who will be offering a companion bill in the Senate provided the following statement: "Open Air Burn pits were widely used at military facilities in Iraq and Afghanistan to burn organic materials, chemicals, unspent fuel and other dangerous waste. The resulting exposure has in some cases led to serious health repercussions for many returning troops and veterans," said Udall. "With this registry, we can ensure that those who have been exposed to toxic chemicals and fumes while serving overseas are better informed about the effects so that they can be properly treated."
Congressman Akin added, "I specifically want to thank the tireless citizens with Burn Pits 360. Their advocacy and support of those affected by burn pits is truly commendable, and this legislation would not have been created without their hard work."
The Open Burn Pit Registry Act is supported by the following veterans groups:
* Burn Pits 360
* Veterans of Foreign Wars
* AMVETS
* Association of the U.S. Navy
* The Retired Enlisted Association
* Association of the United States Navy
* The Reserve Enlisted Association
* American Legion
* National Military Family Association
* Vietnam Veterans of America
* Association of the Air Force
* Disabled American Veterans
* Non Commissioned Officers Association
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