The decades-long water contamination at Camp Lejeune is one of the largest government scandals in history. Affected residents developed horrific, sometimes-deadly diseases due to the toxic water they were exposed to daily. However, many people still fail to realize the full truth surrounding the Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal. To help you further understand the controversy, here are six undeniable facts about the Camp Lejeune Justice Act:
1. It Happened Over Decades
Unfortunately, the water contamination at Camp Lejeune happened for a long time. The text of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act sets the dates when people were likely in danger from the contaminated water in stone. Those who lived on the base for more than 30 days between August 1953, and December 1987 qualify to bring a lawsuit against the government. According to studies done by both government agencies and independent groups, these are the most accurate dates possible. To file a lawsuit, you’ll need official documentation showing that you actually lived on the base during this period.
2. There Was an Active Coverup
Sadly, the government knew about the potential hazards of Camp Lejeune’s water contamination for decades before truly addressing the crisis. Because of their inaction, and their frequent denial that there even was a problem, millions of people were exposed to toxic, contaminated water (often for years at a time). The sheer number of people affected by the water contamination at Camp Lejeune has made this incident one of the largest controversies to hit the US government ever. Thankfully, legal groups can help, with RIL representing victims of the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.
3. Several Groups Qualify for Camp Lejeune Justice Act Lawsuits
Many people assume that only veterans qualify for lawsuits connected to the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. However, this is simply not the truth. In addition to veterans, any of their family members who lived on the base during the law-set period qualify for lawsuits as well. Additionally, civilian contractors who resided on the base during this law-set period can file suits against the government. Those who are not certain as to whether or not they qualify should get in contact with a legal professional ASAP. The sooner you can file, the sooner you’ll receive the settlement that you deserve.
4. The Government Has Already Set Up Funds for Settlements
The US government has already approved more than $2 billion in funds for Camp Lejeune Justice Act settlements. Because there are already existing funds set aside, those who are quick about filing lawsuits are much more likely to receive a fast, and ample, payout. This initial funding is meant to last for around two years before it’s hopefully replenished for future victims of the Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal.
5. VA Disability Benefits Recipients Still Qualify
Back in 2012, separate legislation – connected to the Camp Lejeune Families Act – provided VA disability benefits to some of the veterans who were harmed by the base’s water contamination. That being said, even if you received these benefits, or are currently receiving VA disability benefits, you still qualify for a settlement under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. You deserve full compensation for the damages that you’ve dealt with due to the government’s inaction surrounding the Camp Lejeune water contamination.
6. Many Toxic Contaminants Were Discovered in Camp Lejeune’s Water
Toxic contaminants were discovered in Camp Lejeune’s water sources. These contaminants, known as volatile organic compounds, entered into water sources due to broken storage tanks, toxic wells, and runoff from nearby plants. Vinyl chloride, benzene, and tetrachloroethylene were some of the most prominent VOCs that were discovered. Prolonged exposure to these contaminants ended up afflicting potentially millions of residents of Camp Lejeune with devastating, and sometimes-irreversible medical conditions. Sadly, these contaminants were linked to the development of the following diseases (and many more):
-Esophageal Cancer
-Breast Cancer
-Bladder Cancer
-Lung Cancer
-Kidney Cancer
-Scleroderma
-Leukemia
-Miscarriage
-Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
-Renal Toxicity
-Myelodysplastic Syndromes
-Hepatic Steatosis
-Female Infertility
-Neurobehavioral Effects
-Multiple Myeloma
Claim Your Compensation
Once you get the ball rolling on filing a Camp Lejeune Justice Act lawsuit, you’ll be well on your way to receiving a settlement that can help you take back your life. These settlements can help you settle medical debt, can help you boost your quality of life, and can help you plan for the future. The government must be held accountable for its inaction and criminal oversight, so all affected individuals must seek the compensation they deserve for years, upon years of damages.
