H.R. 1400: To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption that certain veterans were exposed to radiation and other toxins at the Nevada Test and Training Range for purposes of the treatment of certain disabilities under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

This bill seeks to amend the laws governing veterans' benefits under Title 38 of the United States Code. The primary purpose of the bill is to create a presumption that certain veterans were exposed to radiation and other toxins while serving at specific locations within the Nevada Test and Training Range. This presumption relates to the treatment of certain disabilities recognized by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Treatment as Radiation-Risk Activities

The bill amends section 1112(c)(3) by including the following:

• It specifies that any military personnel who participated in the development, construction, operation, or maintenance of military installations at a designated location within the Nevada Test and Training Range between January 1, 1972, and January 1, 2005, are recognized as engaging in radiation-risk activities.
• The "covered location at the Nevada Test and Training Range" includes areas at the Nevada Test and Training Range and the Indian Springs Auxiliary Airfield, but excludes Nellis Air Force Base and Creech Air Force Base.

Presumptions of Toxic Exposure

The bill also modifies section 1119(c) regarding presumptions of exposure to toxic substances:

• Veterans who served between January 1, 1972, and January 1, 2005, at assigned duty stations within the airspace above the covered locations at the Nevada Test and Training Range are presumed to have been exposed to toxins.
• This section redefines "covered location," similar to the definition provided in the previous section.

Presumption of Service Connection

Furthermore, the bill changes section 1120(b) to include a new provision:

• For veterans recognized under the newly defined criteria, there is a presumption of service connection for certain health conditions. Specifically, it includes conditions such as lipomas (a type of benign tumor) and tumor-related conditions.

Overall Intent

The bill aims to simplify the process for veterans claiming benefits related to disabilities resulting from exposure to hazardous substances during their military service at defined locations. By establishing these presumptions, the legislation seeks to ensure that veterans have an easier pathway to receive the medical care and financial support they may need due to such exposures.

Relevant Companies

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