Bill > H3847

This bill establishes two key provisions to support veterans exposed to harmful toxins during military service. First, it creates a Massachusetts Orange Heart Medal to be awarded to service members or veterans who suffered service-connected diseases, conditions, or injuries from exposure to toxic substances like Agent Orange and burn pits, with eligibility extending to those who served after December 6, 1941, and had a connection to Massachusetts through military service or residency. Second, the bill establishes a Veterans Agent Orange Advisory Board and an Agent Orange Information and Assistance Program to help Vietnam, Gulf War, and Post-September 11 veterans who may have been exposed to chemical agents. The program's responsibilities include studying health effects, providing medical information, monitoring federal policies, offering genetic counseling, maintaining a veteran registry, referring veterans to treatment resources, helping with compensation claims, and communicating veterans' concerns to state and federal officials. The board will consist of five members appointed by the secretary of veterans' services and the governor, with a majority being veterans, who will serve without compensation and help guide the program's implementation.

Military Affairs and Security

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3847