MEASURE RECOGNIZING MAINE VETERANS’ EXPOSURE TO AGENT ORANGE SIGNED INTO LAW

Senator Tuttle’s measure supports veterans exposed to harmful chemicals at Gagetown

AUGUSTA— This afternoon, a resolve sponsored by Democratic Senator John Tuttle of Sanford to acknowledge the serious harm that has come to Maine’s National Guard veterans from exposure to Agent Orange and other harmful chemicals at the Canadian Forces Base in Gagetown, New Brunswick, was signed into law at a signing ceremony in the Governor’s Cabinet Room.

“It is part of our nation’s duty to the men and women who have served this country to ensure that we take care of the treatment of any injuries or disabilities caused by their service,” said Senator Tuttle, a former Veteran of the Maine National Guard. “Unfortunately, I know many veterans who put their lives on the line for this country only to be denied the care and benefits they need.”

The U.S. government has refused to acknowledge any connection between the soldiers’ illnesses and their exposure to these chemicals. Senator Tuttle’s resolve will recognize the environmental hazards present at Gagetown and the resulting potential health risks and disabilities.

“It is time the federal government provided all our veterans with the care and benefits they deserve,”  added Senator Tuttle.

The measure, LD 1632, “Resolve, Directing the Commissioner of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management To Request the Federal Government To Recognize Environmental Hazards at the Military Training Center in Gagetown, New Brunswick and the Resulting Health Risks and Disabilities Suffered by Certain Members of the Maine National Guard,” will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.

###