Buffalo, N.Y. – On Veterans Day, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park to honor local service members and to call attention to the health challenges faced by veterans exposed to toxic chemicals during their service.
Focus on toxic exposure and the PACT Act
Gillibrand told the gathered crowd that ensuring veterans receive the care they need has been a top priority throughout her time in Congress. She highlighted the PACT Act, a federal law that expands benefits for veterans who suffered illnesses linked to burn‑pit exposure and other hazardous substances.
“Massive burn pits were used to dump waste and then set on fire with jet fuel,” the senator said. “The toxins released have caused horrific cancers and other diseases that our veterans have had to endure.”
New bill aims to protect women veterans
While praising the PACT Act, Gillibrand argued that the legislation falls short, especially for female veterans. She announced the introduction of the “Toxic Exposure and Women’s Veterans Health Outcomes Act,” which would fund research into how toxic exposure affects women, including issues such as infertility, premature menopause, birth defects in future generations, and developmental disabilities in children.
“That is simply outrageous,” Gillibrand asserted, emphasizing the need for targeted studies and resources to address these unique health concerns.
VA funding and staffing concerns
When asked about the local VA hospital, Gillibrand said the facility has been “chronically underfunded for decades.” She noted that the VA lacks sufficient staff and specialists, leading to long wait times for appointments and medication.
Veterans present at the event offered mixed perspectives. Navy veteran Carl Mottern praised the care he received but acknowledged the VA’s staffing shortages, saying, “They are overwhelmed. It takes time to get appointments and medicines.” Army veteran Anthony Bartucca highlighted the dedication of the staff, noting, “There are a lot of incredible doctors and staff who truly care, many of whom are veterans themselves.”
Senator’s call to action
Gillibrand concluded by urging continued focus on veterans and their families, stating, “We must make sure they are made whole for the unbelievable courage and sacrifice they displayed every time they deployed around the globe.” She called on Congress and the Department of Veterans Affairs to allocate additional resources to speed up benefits and improve care at facilities like the Buffalo VA.
What’s next?
The proposed women’s‑veteran bill will be introduced in the upcoming congressional session. Advocates hope it will spur further research and funding, while critics caution about the cost and implementation challenges. The Senate will likely hold hearings on the bill later this year, providing an opportunity for veterans, medical experts, and policymakers to weigh in.
Original reporting: WKBW 7 Buffalo (Buffalo section) — read the source article.
