Pennsylvania Rep. Sappey Calls for U.S. Senators to Back Veterans

PENNSYLVANIA —State lawmaker Rep. Christina D. Sappey is leading a bipartisan group of 39 state lawmakers urging the Pennsylvania U.S. senators to pass legislation that would provide financial assistance to veterans exposed to toxic inhalants.

The U.S. House, in a bipartisan agreement, passed the Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins Act, also known as the PACT Act, on May 18. The PACT Act has moved to the U.S. Senate for review.

Sappey, a Chester County Democrat representing the 158th District, wrote a letter to U.S. Sens. Robert Casey Jr., a Democrat, and Pat Toomey, a Republican, urging both senators to support the legislation honoring the nation’s veterans.

“Memorial Day is a perfect time for the U.S. Senate to pass and fully fund the Honoring Our PACT Act, demonstrating our gratitude and commitment to veterans and active military.” Sappey said.

“I believe, and so do the colleagues from both sides of the aisle that joined me in urging the U.S. Senate to pass this bill, that making those who become ill or disabled from the hazards they endured in service to our nation have to wait and fight for care would be utterly disrespectful. We need to walk the talk here.”

State Reps. Melissa Shusterman and Dianne Herrin, Chester County Democrats, and State Sens. Katie Muth, Carolyn Comitta, also Chester County Democrats, were among the lawmakers who signed the letter.

An estimated 3.5 million veterans have been exposed to toxic inhalants from waste and garbage burn pits on military bases, causing severe health issues, Sappey wrote in the letter.

“Our veterans represent the pinnacle of public service in our communities, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they are provided with the health care they need and deserve,” Sappey wrote.

“Please show your gratitude to our loyal veterans by supporting and honoring our PACT Act in the Senate.”