President Biden Unveils Bold New Initiative to Enhance Veterans’ Benefits

As a country, there is no greater responsibility than adequately preparing those we deploy into peril and ensuring their well-being and that of their families upon their return home. This becomes increasingly vital as we recognize that many returning service members face persistent health issues stemming from their military service. Therefore, as President, I have prioritized the support of veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors, making it a fundamental part of my Unity Agenda for the Nation.

Among my primary objectives for advocating for veterans has been tackling the detrimental toxic exposures frequently linked with military service. Agent Orange, radiation, burn pits, and various other dangers result in devastating effects for those who have been affected. When I enacted the PACT Act into law in 2022, I established the most significant enhancement of benefits and services for veterans exposed to toxins in over three decades. This legislation has been groundbreaking and has allowed the VA to assist a greater number of veterans more swiftly than ever before. Additionally, I have instructed my Administration to expedite all facets of executing the law, including utilizing new PACT Act powers to ensure that a broader range of conditions can be acknowledged as presumptive—reducing the proof burden for veterans to qualify for disability benefits related to toxic ailments, such as cancer.

Today, I take pride in the fact that the VA is including more cancers in the list that are assumed to be related to burn pit exposure. These now encompass bladder cancer, ureter cancer, other genitourinary cancers, along with acute and chronic leukemias, and multiple myeloma. Veterans suffering from these ailments, in addition to survivors of veterans who have died due to these diseases, can promptly apply for benefits. I urge them to do so.

These measures build upon other recent declarations aimed at broadening eligibility for GI Bill benefits, reducing healthcare expenses for veterans, and enhancing resources to assist in eradicating veteran homelessness—reaching a historic low in 2024. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as Commander-in-Chief and to advocate for and care for our service members, veterans, and their families.

###