Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary McDonough requesting an extension to the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act deadline to submit a retroactive claim or an intent to file claim that expires tonight at midnight to August 2024. Reports indicate that approximately 18% of veterans and survivors who submitted claims, as well as notices of intentions to file claims have received an error message. The error message has been caused by the high volume of submitted claims.

“Our veterans have waited far too long to receive the help they were promised, which is why I was proud to vote in favor of the PACT Act last Congress and urged by colleagues to do the same by speaking on the House Floor,” said Rep. Rosendale. “Our nation’s heroes deserve the benefits they have earned, which is why I have requested that Sec. McDonough extend the deadline for PACT Act backpay to ensure every veteran receives the quality care they were promised.”

Last year, Congress passed the PACT Act to connect veterans exposed to burn pits or dangerous toxins during their service with the benefits they were promised. This legislation established a permanent VA healthcare plan for veterans exposed to toxins that keeps pace with scientific advancements. Rep. Rosendale was proud to vote in favor of this bill and spoke on the House Floor to urge his colleagues to do the same.