PACT Act
Validating Your Service &
Providing Benefits You Deserve
According to the United States White House, more than 5 million veterans – across all generations – may have been impacted by toxic exposures while serving in the United States Military.
On August 2, 2022, the United States Congress passed bipartisan legislation known as the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT Act). President Biden signed the PACT Act at a ceremony at the White House on August 10, 2022. The Act will provide affected veterans, their families, and caregivers with health care and benefits.
According to the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics Fiscal Year 2021 report, the United States Veteran Population is 19,088,805. Colorado is home to 387,618 veterans. The report also indicates El Paso County is home to 94,483 veterans, approximately 24% of the state’s veteran population.
It is estimated that more than 5 million veterans were exposed to toxic substances and eligible for benefits under the new PACT Act law. That means approximately 26% of all United States veterans can now capture previously unavailable generational benefits. Similarly, about 24,000 veterans in El Paso County could be eligible for new benefits.
El Paso County Veteran Service Officers are dedicated to helping veterans and dependents maximize benefits. As accredited Veteran Service Officers in El Paso County, you can trust that you will be heard, understood, and provided the highest quality of service.
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El Paso County Resident Veterans
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El Paso County PACT Act Benefit Claims Filed
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VA Approval Rate for PACT Act Related Claims
El Paso County PACT Act Stand Down Program
El Paso County Division of Veteran Services implements the PACT Act Stand Down Program to provide new and streamlined services to the veteran community. The Pikes Peak region is home to nearly 100,000 veterans and their families. El Paso County is committed to providing quality services and resources to the veteran community.
The Program designates specific “claims clinics” to serve veterans at the El Paso County Veterans Office. During the clinics, the Veteran Health Administration assists County staff, providing medical providers who perform Toxic Health Screenings for veterans who served in PACT Act presumptive locations. These veterans also have the opportunity to enroll in VA Healthcare if not previously enrolled.
“It is critical that we are innovative with our approach to public service and continually work to improve and protect the quality of life for all of our residents,” said El Paso County Board Member Longinos Gonzalez, Jr. “This innovative program allows us to better connect with, educate, and serve our veteran community to provide practical and life-changing assistance.”
MEDIA COVERAGE
An Interview with Pulmonologist Dr. Silpa Krefft
This interview with pulmonologist Dr. Silpa Krefft was recorded on June 29, 2023. In this episode I spoke with Dr. Krefft about her role in medical research for veterans and the importance of the PACT Act.
Marshall Bosworth – PACT Act – June 19, 2023 – KRDO’s Morning News
An Interview with Michelle Hill and Veteran Services Officer Richard Gagne
This interview with El Paso County resident Michelle Hill and Veteran Services Officer Richard Gagne was recorded on May 18, 2023. In this episode we discuss the PACT Act, how it could impact our Veteran population, and the difference it has made in Michelle’s life.
Financial relief available for veterans exposed to life-threatening toxic substances
One of the most important pieces of congressional legislation signed into law recently is the PACT Act. President Biden put pen to paper last August and it provides new and expanded relief for our veterans who may have been exposed to life-changing toxic substances while they served.
More than 1,000 Veterans apply for PACT Act benefits
“This took away the confusion and I got everything done today.”
More than 1,000 Veterans apply for PACT Act benefits
El Paso County Division of Veteran Services
The El Paso County Veterans Service Office is responsible for assisting residents of the State of Colorado who served honorably in the United States Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Navy, Marine Corps or any other armed service of the nation.
The El Paso County Veterans Service Office was established by State law to advise and assist veterans, their dependents, and their survivors concerning any Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits which such person may be, or may have been, entitled to receive under the laws of the United States or the State of Colorado. The office is not a part of the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is a Federal government agency, but serves as a liaison between the claimant and the VA.
The primary purpose of the office is to provide personalized local service to veterans and other claimants, and to assist them in cutting through the maze of red tape frequently involved in direct dealings with government agencies.
CONTACT US
Main Office
Veterans Service Office
5850 Championship View, Suite 130
Colorado Springs, CO 80922
Phone: (719) 520-7750
FAX: (719) 520-7751
Satellite Office
Mt. Carmel Veteran Service Center
530 Communication Circle, Ste 114
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
Phone: (719) 309-4729
FAX: (719) 520-7751
Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Monday – Friday, except holidays
By Appointment Only