OLR Bill Analysis

SB 314

AN ACT CONCERNING ISSUES AFFECTING THE VETERANS' COMMUNITY.

SUMMARY:

This bill eliminates references to the Vietnam Herbicides Information Commission, which completed its work and was terminated by law on June 30, 1990. It also makes a minor and conforming change.

EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon passage

BACKGROUND

By law, the Department of Public Health (DPH), in conjunction and consultation with the Department of Veterans' Affairs and within available appropriations, may (1) establish, promote, and maintain (a) a public information program on Vietnam herbicides, which must include an extensive effort to identify and contact veterans who may have been exposed to such herbicides and (b) a reporting process for veterans who were exposed to Vietnam herbicides; (2) initiate education for health professionals to assist them in understanding the potential risks and state-of-art knowledge regarding Vietnam herbicide exposure; and (3) refer veterans to appropriate state and federal agencies to file claims to remedy medical and financial problems caused by Vietnam herbicide exposure. The DPH commissioner may enter into agreements with state nonprofit veterans' organizations to provide these services (CGS § 27-140dd).

COMMITTEE ACTION

Select Committee on Veterans' Affairs

Joint Favorable Change of Reference

Public Health Committee

Joint Favorable