SENATE ENACTS MEASURE TO RECOGNIZE MAINE VETERANS’ EXPOSURE TO AGENT ORANGE

Measure supports veterans exposed to harmful chemicals at Gagetown

AUGUSTA— Today, the Senate enacted a measure 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.

“We all agree that part of our nation’s duty to the men and women who serve includes making sure that we take care of the treatment and care of any injuries or disabilities caused by their service,” said Senator Tuttle. “Unfortunately, I know many veterans who sacrificed their lives 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.

“I’m grateful that lawmakers were able to come together in support of this common sense measure to demand action from the federal government,” added Senator Tuttle, a veteran of the Maine National Guard.

The bill, 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 now be sent to Governor LePage for his signature.

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