Did you know that veterans make up three out of ten mesothelioma deaths in the United States? Mesothelioma, a fatal cancer known to be caused by asbestos exposure, has affected individuals within all branches of the U.S. Military. After a veteran has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, like mesothelioma, they often file claims against those responsible for their illness that can help pay for medical bills, time lost at work, and more.
Today, politicians and asbestos insurance companies are working to limit these individuals’ access to justice with the FACT Act. While claiming to “further asbestos claims transparency,” the bill actually hurts veterans’ in more ways than one:
Invades Veterans’ Privacy
The FACT Act forces veterans to make their personal information available on public databases, where anyone can access them. Their work histories, medical conditions, partial social security numbers, and information about their children and families would become available to anyone capable of searching the web.
Delays Compensation for Veterans
The FACT Act will increase asbestos trusts’ administrative burdens, leading to higher non-reimbursable costs and delays in claims processing. It is the hope of asbestos companies that these delays will encourage victims to settle for lower amounts than they are entitled to.
Decreases Compensation for Veterans
The asbestos companies behind the FACT Act want to see a decrease in the funds available in trusts. The payment percentages for claimants will also be reduced under the FACT Act.
Read this Fact Sheet to find out more about how the FACT Act hurts veterans
and other victims of asbestos exposure.
Write to congress today and share your thoughts on where real transparency is needed. Asbestos companies are not the victims of veterans filing asbestos claims. The true victims deserve protection, privacy, and justice from those who deliberately put them and their families in danger.
