U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) offered bipartisan legislation that would make technical corrections to a federal law that provides judicial relief for individuals exposed to toxic chemicals at Camp Lejeune, N.C.
“I am proud to introduce this legislation with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to bring justice for victims and provide a path forward for justice after decades of delay,” said Sen. Tillis, who on Sept. 25 sponsored the Ensuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act of 2024, S. 5257, with 11 original cosponsors, including lead original cosponsor U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).
If enacted, S. 5257 would make technical corrections to the original Camp Lejeune Justice Act by clarifying the right to jury trials and the appropriate causation standard, capping attorneys’ fees, and expanding jurisdiction to alleviate the backlog of toxic water claims, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“Currently, veterans and other victims exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune are running into roadblocks that are denying them their day in court before a jury for the often-crippling and deadly medical conditions they have suffered,” Sen. Tillis said. “Since coming to office, I have worked alongside those who lived and worked at Camp Lejeune that were unknowingly exposed to harmful chemicals to finally give them the health care and benefits they deserve.”
Specifically, S. 5257 would permit cases to be heard in any district court in the 4th Circuit; explicitly provide for jury trials; expressly state that victims must only show general causation, including for latent or potential harm; cap attorney fees at 20 percent for settlements and 25 percent for trials; and ensure there is no room for interpreting Congress’ intent to provide complete and swift relief to victims of contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, the summary says.
“Victims of Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water deserve recompense and accountability,” Sen. Blumenthal said. “With this essential legislation, we eliminate roadblocks and provide a pathway to seeking justice for our veterans and their families affected by toxic exposure, ensuring access to well-deserved benefits and relief.”
Numerous Veteran Service Organizations support the bill, including the Special Operations Association of America, the American Legion, the National Military Family Association, the Marine Corps League, the Military Chaplains Association, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and Vietnam Veterans of America, among others.