Lawmakers Call for Independent Investigation into Chemical and Biological Testing on American Veterans

Rep. Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) and Rep. Denny Rehberg (R-Mont.) today introduced the “Veterans Right to Know Act,” a bill that would establish an independent commission to investigate chemical and biological weapons testing conducted on American servicemen and women.

Between 1962 and 1974, the Department of Defense (DoD) conducted a number of weapons tests on unknowing military personnel, using chemical and biological agents, such as Vx nerve gas, Sarin Nerve Gas and E. Coli. A Government Accountability Office report (GAO-04-410) issued in May of 2004 concluded that a substantial number of veterans remain unaware that tests were conducted on them.

“Throughout the 60's and 70's our government exposed thousands of servicemen and women to harmful chemical and biological agents. Today, these veterans have the right to know what they were exposed to so that they can receive the healthcare they need and deserve,” Thompson said. “This legislation will establish an independent investigation to uncover which tests took place, what agents were used and which veterans were exposed.”

"This is about openness, honesty and forthrightness in government; above all, it's about doing the right thing and uncovering the truth. Truth is what these brave veterans have asked for and truth is what they deserve,” Rehberg said.

The “Veterans Right to Know Act,” would create a 10-member, bipartisan Commission (modeled after the 911 Commission) to investigate chemical or biological warfare tests carried out under Project 112/SHAD. The commission would be required to report to Congress and the President 36 months after it is established. The commission would work with the Veterans' Administration to inform those who were exposed to testing. If veterans have symptoms associated with the tests they would be eligible for proper medical treatment and any potential service related disability compensation.

The bill has been endorsed by, the Vietnam Veterans of America, the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Disabled American Veterans, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the Military Officers Association of America, the Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the Blinded Veterans of America.

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