The Expanded Registry Now Includes All Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan Veterans
The burn pit registry has now expanded to automatically include all veterans who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other nations across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. This change by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) adds approximately 4.7 million current and former service members to the registry.
This burn pit registry expansion is a crucial step for veterans seeking to document their exposure to toxic fumes during their military service. By automatically including those who served in specified regions, the VA ensures that no veteran is left out of this important record-keeping system. The inclusion is based on deployment locations, which means the process is now much simpler and more accessible for veterans.
Why the Burn Pit Registry Matters to Veterans
The burn pit registry was established to help veterans document their exposure to airborne hazards, particularly from burn pits used during military operations. Veterans who register contribute valuable information that aids in ongoing research and treatment efforts. This is particularly important for those experiencing health issues related to their service in these hazardous environments.
Automatic Enrollment in the Expanded Registry
One significant update in the burn pit registry is the removal of the previously required 140-question survey. Veterans are now automatically enrolled based on their service locations, streamlining the process. This change is intended to increase participation and ensure that more veterans are included in the registry without the barrier of a lengthy questionnaire.
Who Is Included in the Burn Pit Registry?
Veterans and service members, both living and deceased, are automatically enrolled in the burn pit registry if they served in operations such as Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, or New Dawn. The expanded registry includes those deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other specified regions, covering service periods dating back to 1990 including the following:
- Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, or New Dawn
- Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Djibouti, and other specified regions
- Southeast Asian theater of military operations since Aug. 2, 1990
- Airspaces associated with these countries
How the Burn Pit Registry Protects Your Rights
Participating in the burn pit registry ensures that your exposure to toxic substances is documented. While the registry does not include medical information, it contains key service data, which is critical for veterans when filing VA disability claims. This information is accessible only to a select group of VA researchers, helping to maintain the privacy of those enrolled.
Tucker Disability Law: Helping Veterans Nationwide
Veterans who have applied for disability and had their claim denied have a right to file an appeal.
Veterans with preexisting conditions made worse by their time in service, or who develop service-connected disabilities, may also apply for benefits. If you feel that you qualify for a claim, don’t delay; contact us immediately.
You may be one of the thousands of veterans frustrated because you feel you have been underrated by the VA or that upcoming changes will cause you to be underrated.
Tucker Disability Law has helped veterans in every kind of situation for over 30 years. We can help you too. Contact us so we can discuss your specific situation and make sure you’re getting the benefits you deserve. If you have any condition likely related to burn pit exposure, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help with your claim, whether it involves filing an initial claim or appealing one that’s been denied.
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