Thank you Mr. Chairman.

As you know, many veterans were exposed to the harmful toxins Agent Orange during their service in Vietnam. 

Exposure to herbicides was not considered a health hazard when spraying took place.

As a result, many Vietnam veterans who were exposed to these herbicides during the War began to experience serious illnesses upon return as well as birth defects in their children.

While it has been several decades since these soldiers returned home from Vietnam, I find it unacceptable that some Vietnam veterans are still fighting the VA to get the benefits they deserve.

I believe that all Vietnam veterans who served whether in the inland waterways, the waters offshore, or the airspace above deserve benefits they have earned.

I support Chairman Filner’s efforts to extend presumption of service-connection for diseases associated with herbicide exposure to those that have been previously excluded by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ narrow definition of service-connection – mostly Navy veterans.

Specifically, this bill helps to clarify Congress’ intent to include all veterans who served in Vietnam as being entitled to presumptive service-connection for exposure to Agent Orange. Passing this bill honors their service to our nation and ensures Vietnam veterans get the benefits they have earned.  

Ensuring veterans get these services must remain a clear and unmistakable priority.

I look forward to hearing from today’s witnesses about how we can ensure Vietnam veterans receive the benefits they have earned.

I yield back.