Camp Lejeune lawsuits have dominated the airwaves and veterans’ email accounts for the past few months, especially since the passage of the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promises to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022.

MOAA doesn’t typically comment on these issues, but the families of servicemembers and contractors assigned to the North Carolina base between Aug. 1, 1953, and Dec. 31, 1987, may finally receive some monetary compensation for their toxic exposure, not just medical payment recoupment.    

[RELATED: President Signs Comprehensive Toxic Exposure Reform Into Law]

However, veterans should take pause when deciding whether to join a lawsuit. If veterans receive compensation from such a lawsuit, the Justice Department will consult with the VA to “offset” any lawsuit compensation a veteran has already received (or is receiving) from the VA for the same disabilities. The government will not allow you to be compensated twice for the same purpose.

Veterans should seek the free services of an accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) before talking to a law firm bringing forth Camp Lejeune litigation. The largest VSOs – Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans – have been servicing veteran and survivor claims for decades and will provide unbiased expert advice on VA benefits.    

To find an accredited VSO, search “VSO” at this link. You can learn more about VA benefits connected with Camp Lejeune water contamination on the VA website.

More PACT Act Resources

While the Camp Lejeune benefits involve legal proceedings, the bulk of the PACT Act expands VA benefits to servicemembers affected by toxins during their time in uniform.

Visit VA.org/PACT for details on these benefits, and go to MOAA.org/PACTresources for links to bill text, fact sheets, and other information.