From staff reports LAWTON – A two-day event at Cameron University will promote opportunities for veterans, military service members and their dependents.
Cameron’s fifth annual Vet Fest, hosted by CU’s Office of Veterans Affairs, will be held on Monday, April 1, and Tuesday, April 2, on the second floor of the McMahon Centennial Complex.
“We’ve expanded this spring’s Vet Fest to provide additional information, tips and resources for veterans,” says Vicki Henson, Assistant Director of Financial Assistance Services and Coordinator of Veterans Affairs. “We’re pleased to present information about the impact of the newly enacted PACT Act, including a daylong PACT Act/community engagement event hosted by the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center.
“Under this act, the Department of Veterans Affairs has launched one of the biggest expansions of healthcare in its history. All veterans exposed to toxic substances and other hazards during military service are now eligible to enroll directly in VA healthcare without first applying for VA benefits.”
The law, The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, is an expansion of VA healthcare began March 5, 2024 – years earlier than called for by the PACT Act. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs website, veterans and/or survivors can file claims now for the benefits.
Five changes to veterans healthcare highlight the act:
• Expands and extends eligibility for VA healthcare for veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War and post-9/11 eras.
• Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxic exposures.
• Adds more presumptive exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation.
• Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA healthcare.
• Helps improve research, staff education and treatment related to toxic exposures In addition to information about the PACT Act, other opportunities available at the event include tips for applying for federal jobs, tribal updates and more.
There is a full schedule for both days of the Vet Fest. Highlights include Gregory Hill, lead personnel support assistant, Lawton VA Outpatient Clinic, will be on site beginning at 9:30 a.m. on both days to enroll veterans into the VA health system.
On Monday, beginning at 10:30 a.m., Emilio Ozuma, a representative from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, will offer information about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program as well as childcare assistance for those who struggle with the cost of child care and grocery bills.