It’s been a year since the signing of the Honoring Our Pact Act of 2022, in August of last year. The Act included The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 which acknowledged the water contamination that sickened many people during their time on the Camp Lejeune base. This legislation also provided funding to compensate those who suffered illnesses from being exposed to the contaminants in the water. Both military veterans, their dependents who were also at Camp Lejeune, and civilian workers are eligible.
What Happened at Camp Lejeune in 1953
In 1982, the US Marine Corps discovered the presence of toxic chemicals in three of the water treatment plants that provided drinking water to the base. Those plants provided drinking water to several base housing units for Marines and their families as well as barracks for unmarried service members.
The contamination was believed to have started about 1953 from a chemical dumpage by a dry cleaner near the base and improperly disposed of chemicals. Later, other volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) used for construction and industrial purposes leaked into the water plants, adding to the toxic load.
These chemicals in such high amounts led to millions of people being exposed and potentially made ill with various diseases such as cancers, miscarriages, and other serious illnesses. No one understood why there was such a high rate of serious illnesses among service members and their families until the discovery of the contamination.
Deadline is Coming – One Year Left To File
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act allowed just two years for both veterans and civilians to file a claim for their illness. This two-year period began the day the Acts were signed, August 10, 2022. A year has passed, and the last day to file is August 10, 2024.
If you or a family member believes they are eligible, you must act quickly to avoid missing the window of opportunity to file a claim. Once the deadline passes next year, there may not be any way to file a claim and potentially receive compensation.
This compensation will cover medical expenses for illnesses that resulted from exposure to the toxic chemicals for both the military and civilians who spent time at Camp Lejeune. This includes children who were exposed during pregnancy or after birth, as well as children who moved there with their parents.
Surviving spouses and children can also file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a deceased family member. This can include spouses of military members and children of either military members or civilian parents who died from illnesses related to water contaminants.
Not sure how to file your claim? Let us help. Herren Law understands the seriousness of the Camp Lejeune situation and stands ready to guide you throughout the process.
Camp Lejeune Claim? Contact The Herren Law Firm Today
For more than 30 years, the Herren law firm has helped veterans and other disabled people with their benefit claims and appeals. We have extensive experience dealing with governmental agencies and the claims that are filed with them.
If you or someone you know became ill after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, get in touch with us immediately.
We’ve helped over 4,000 people, and we can help you as well. Contact us today by calling (713) 682-8194 or using our online contact form our consultation is free, and you won’t owe us a fee until we win your case.
