New push to resolve Camp Lejeune contamination cases

A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced legislation aimed at clearing hurdles that have slowed or denied justice for thousands of veterans affected by contaminated water exposure at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.

Last week, US Rep. Richard Hudson, R-NC9, introduced the Ensuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act, a follow-up to the 2022 Camp Lejeune Justice Act. The original bill passed as part of the PACT Act, a legislative package aimed at expanding VA health care and benefits for veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances. Co-led by US Reps. Greg Murphy, R-NC3; Deborah Ross, D-NC2; and Don Davis, D-NC1, the bill gathered broad bipartisan support.

Background on the Camp Lejeune Claims

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act allows individuals exposed to contaminated water at the North Carolina military base between 1953 and 1987 to file claims against the federal government. However, more than 400,000 claims are currently pending with the Department of the Navy, and none have yet proceeded to trial.

In a press release, Hudson said the original legislation was intended to streamline access to compensation, but procedural issues have left many veterans without resolve.

“The Camp Lejeune Justice Act was created to address the wrongs endured by our veterans and to make it easier for them to access their rightful claims,” said Hudson. “Unfortunately, veterans are getting a lot of runaround that prevents them from getting justice.”

Lawmakers say the follow-up legislation aims to cut through red tape and ensure the law functions as intended for those seeking relief. 

Murphy added, “Many still struggle to benefit due to unforeseen obstacles… These updates will help alleviate the backlog of cases, ensuring timely resolution and closure for all that have been affected.”

Legislative Changes Proposed in New Bill

The new bill proposes several technical amendments aimed at clarifying and expediting the claims process: 

• Jury-trial access: The bill affirms the right to request a jury trial, addressing ambiguity in the original law.
• Causation standards: It clarifies that claimants only need to establish general causation rather than specific causation.
• Expanded court access: It allows cases to be heard in any federal court in North or South Carolina, providing greater flexibility for plaintiffs.
• Attorney-fee limits: The bill sets caps on legal fees at 20% for administrative settlements and 25% for trials.

contaminants and health risks linked to exposure

According to the National Research (US) Committee on Contaminated Drinking Water at Camp Lejeune, the main contaminants include trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene. These chemicals, introduced through activities like dry cleaning and fuel storage, have been linked to various health issues. 

Exposure has been associated with increased risks of cancer and other medical conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, female infertility, and miscarriages.

Ross emphasized the importance of honoring service members by removing barriers to justice for those affected.

“Our brave veterans put their lives on the line to defend our country and should never face barriers to accessing the justice they deserve after exposure to toxic water during their time stationed at Camp Lejeune,” she said.

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