1 15 4 https://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/speccoll/files/original/71bc635497d4d0ac97d3b962b452439d.pdf 60d7092f7e827955591d738a2bd1ee99 PDF Text Text Ram n Number °5618 Author Brandt, Edward N., Jr. D ^ot Scanned Corporate Author Report/ArtlcldTltlO Memorandum from Edward N. Brandt, Jr. to Director, Centers for Disease Control, with subject: CDC Protocols for Studies of Vietnam Veterans, dated February 16, 1984 Journal/Book Title Year 000 ° Month/Day Color Number of Imagoe DBSCPtytOn NOtOS D ° Alvin L Youn 9 filed these documents together with others in a folder labeled, "Agent Orange Working Group Science Panel, Current Folder." Monday, March 25, 2002 Page 5618 of 5720 �DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH £ HUMAN SERVICES „ , Public Health Service Memorandum \ 6 i98fl Date From Assistant Secretary for Health subject CDC Protocols for Studies of Vietnam Veterans TO Director, Centers for Disease Control In my capacity as Chairman of the Agent Orange Working Group (AOWG), I have been reviewing all of the research underway. Attached is a copy of the recommendations of the AOWG Science Panel concerning the CDC protocols for the studies of Vietnam Veterans. I am especially concerned about the recommendation number 3. What are we doing about exposure data? How would we answer the questions posed in 3(a) and 3(b)? Thanks. Edward N. Brandt, Jr., M.D. Attachment il .n v orrespondcnoe 'Jr iv . 'J':.' .!•.. 3323 CCtt **• 6-S �ATTACHMENT B Recommendati ons The Science Panel of the Agent Orange Working Group recommends that the Centers for Disease Control, in conjunction with the Veterans Administration, proceed with the proposed Epidetniological Studies of Vietnam Era Veterans according to the following schedule: 1) The Vietnam Experience Study should begin forthwith using the procedures outlined in the protocols. Modifications should be made dependent on the identified potential problems with location and recruitment of study subjects during the pretest and pilot phases. Some more clearly defined diagnostic criteria for somatic and psychiatric health outcomes, e.g. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, should be developed for incorporation in the examination procedures. 2) The Soft Tissue Sarcoma/Lymphoma Case-Control Study should proceed with the expressed cooperation of appropriate investigators within the National Institutes of Health, the Veterans Administration and the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. Vietnam Veterans' concerns for these serious diseases can best be served by closer collaboration with the ongoing efforts of other agencies already studying this issue. 3) The Agent Orange Study presents some particular difficulties which cannot be evaluated at present. It is therefore recommended that the Agent Orange Study proceed through the pretest and pilot phases, at which time a major reevaluation be conducted to address two questions: a) Are the identified high and low exposure cohorts sufficiently different in exposure to Agent Orange and similar in other respects (especially combat experience) to make a scientifically meaningful interpretation of health outcomes? b) Will the results of medical examinations and laboratory tests add significantly to the health information pertinent to herbicide exposure which is obtainable by interview? If the answer to either of these questions is equivocal, or "no", then the Agent Orange study protocol should be revised accordingly. Finally, there should be some assurance that the results from both cohort studies utilizing subjects who had served in the Army will be acceptable to Veterans' groups, the public and the Congress. This is particularly important if there is found to be no detriment to the health of Agent Orange exposed Army Veterans compared to unexposed Army Veterans with similar combat experience (within the limitations imposed by statistical power considerations). �DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES ^—^ Public Health Service Centers for Disease Control Memorandum Date From . MAR 7 1984 Director Centers for Disease Control Subject CDC Protocols for Studies of Vietnam Veterans To The Assistant Secretary for Health Through: E S/PHS This is in response to your memorandum of February 16 expressing concern about a recommendation made by the Agent Orange Working Group (AOWG) Science Panel relative to the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) research protocols for study of the health of Vietnam veterans. With reference to the Science Panel's recommendation 3(a), it is difficult at this time to define "meaningful" exposure to Agent Orange. It is, therefore, not possible to make any unequivocal statements in regard to the Science Panel's recommendation. However, the planned approach to the selection of troops—by a ranking of all Army combat units which were stationed in III Corps in 1967-1968—will help to ensure that men who had the lowest potential for exposure are compared with men who had the highest potential. We cannot predict now whether this will represent meaningful differences in exposure. If the study proceeds as planned and no health differences are observed, it will be impossible to say with certainty whether the lack of difference is due to poor exposure separation (as a result of misclassification because the military records which must be used to estimate exposure were not created for the purposes of an epidemiologic study) or due to a true lack of effect from whatever exposure did occur. If a difference is observed, then attribution to exposure will depend on an assessment according to the usual criteria used in making causal inferences from observational studies. The physical examination (referred to in the Panel's question 3(b)) will be important from the standpoint of the credibility of the study results. The scientific community will be much more likely to accept certain positive findings if study participants are examined. For example, a laboratory finding of impaired immunological function will be more convincing than a finding of increased susceptibility to infections as measured by participants' responses during an interview; neurological abnormalities documented objectively during examinations will allow more definitive statements to be made than will findings such as finger numbness taken from participant's statements during interviews. Veterans also will be much more likely to accept the results of the study, even if negative, if physical examinations are done. �Page 2 - The Assistant Secretary for Health In November 1983 CDC responded to the AOWG comments, and to those made by three other scientific review groups. The comments were included in a document (copy attached) titled "Responses to Scientific Reviews of the Centers for Disease Control's Draft Protocols for Epidemiologic Studies of the Health of Vietnam Veterans." Copies of this documen' were provided at that time to the AOWG Science Panel members through its Chairman Pro tern, Dr. C»rl Keller. These responses to the Science Panel's recommendations were discussed at a December 5 meeting of the Panel which was attended by Dr. Vernon Houk, Director of the Center for Environmental Health and former Chairman of the Science Panel. The Panel agreed at that time that CDC's document adequately addressed the concerns expressed in the AOWG review and those contained in the other review groups' comments. Our researchers recognized early that there is a potential for exposure misclassification in the Agent Orange component of the study. The protocol includes (page 11) a caution that "since many of the proposed [participant selection] procedures are untested, modification, indeed even a recommendation not to proceed with the Agent Orange [component], may be required after pilot study assessment." Please let me know if you wish to discuss or w*nt further information. James Q./Mason, M.D., Dr.P.H. Assistant Surgeon General Prepared by:CDC:Vernon N. Houk, M.D., FTS 236-4111 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Alvin L. Young Collection on Agent Orange Description An account of the resource <p style="margin-top: -1em; line-height: 1.2em;">The Alvin L. Young Collection on Agent Orange comprises 120 linear feet and spans the late 1800s to 2005; however, the bulk of the coverage is from the 1960s to the 1980s and there are many undated items. The collection was donated to Special Collections of the National Agricultural Library in 1985 by Dr. Alvin L. Young (1942- ). Dr. Young developed the collection as he conducted extensive research on the military defoliant Agent Orange. The collection is in good condition and includes letters, memoranda, books, reports, press releases, journal and newspaper clippings, field logs and notebooks, newsletters, maps, booklets and pamphlets, photographs, memorabilia, and audiotapes of an interview with Dr. Young.</p> <p>For more about this collection, <a href="/exhibits/speccoll/exhibits/show/alvin-l--young-collection-on-a">view the Agent Orange Exhibit.</a></p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Box The box containing the original item. 199 Folder The folder containing the original item. 5618 Series The series number of the original item. Series VIII Subseries II Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Brandt, Edward N., Jr. Title A name given to the resource Memorandum from Edward N. Brandt, Jr. to Director, Centers for Disease Control, with subject: CDC Protocols for Studies of Vietnam Veterans, dated February 16, 1984 ao_seriesVIII https://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/speccoll/files/original/a128522051773d25b2db95d6be285908.pdf 60251534050e2023c90966ccbd41cad6 PDF Text Text Item D Number °5616 Author Brandt, Edward N., Jr. D (jot Scanned Corporate Author Report/Article Title Memorandum from Edward N. Brandt to Members, Cabinet Council Agent Orange Working Group, with subject: Special Meeting of the Agent Orange Working Group - Australian Visitors, dated February 10, 1984 Journal/Book Title 000 Year ° Month/Day D Color Number of Images I NOtBS o Includes attachments. Monday, March 25, 2002 Page 5616 of 5720 �DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES Office of the Secretary Washington, D.C. 20201 FEB 1 0 1984 MEMORANDUM TO: Members, Cabinet Council Agent grange Working Group FROM : Edward N; Brarrae, Jr., M.D. Chair Pro tempore Cabinet Council Agent Orange Working Group SUBJECT : Special Meeting of the Agent Orange Working Group Australian Visitors There will be a special meeting of the Cabinet Council Agent Orange Working Group on Monday, March 5th at 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon in the Secretary's Conference Room, Sixth Floor reception area, Hubert Humphrey Building, 200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, 1 D.C. • '"' \f -f • .. ,• • • . . . . , . • . _ ' We will be welcoming Dr. John Mattiews and John Coombs, Esquire, Q.C., both of the Royal Australian Commission on Agent Orange (see their itinerary attached). A tentative agenda will be: o o o o o o . o Welcome to Australian visitors Report from Science Panel Report from Veterans Administration Report from Department of Defense Update on Resource Panel Update on Public Affairs Panel Other Business Please call Dr. Peter E.M. Beach, Director of Veterans Affairs/HHS and Executive Secretary, Cabinet Council Agent Orange Working Group if you cannot attend or wish to include urgent business. His telephone numbers are 245-2210/245-6156 Attachments 1. Itinerary 2. Membership List �-3DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES cont'd Dr. Robert W. Miller* Clinical Epidemiology Branch National Cancer Institute - NIH Room 5A21 Landow Building Bethesda, Maryland 20205 (301) 496-5785 WHITE HOUSE OFFICE OF POLICY DEVELOPMENT Lead Representative: Mr. Paul Simmons Special Assistant to the President Office of Policy Development Room 213 Old Executive Office Building Washington, D.C. (202) 456-2884 20500 Dr. William Roper Special Assistant to the President for Health Policy Room 235 Old Executive Office Building Washington, D. C. 20500 (202) 456-6722 WHITE HOUSE OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY Lead Representative: Dr. George Keyworth* Science Adviser to the President & Director, Office of Science Technology Policy Room 358 Old Executive Office Building Washington, D.C. 20500 (202) 456-7116 Dr. Alvin Young* Senior Policy Anaylst Office of Science Technology Policy Room 5005 New Executive Office Building Washington, D.C. 20500 (202) 395-3125 �PROPOSED ITINERARY (20 FEBRUARY - 7 MARCH FOR THE VISIT OF 1984) MR. JOHN S. COOMBS, QC SENIOR COUNSEL ASSISTING ROYAL COMMISSION SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA and DR. JOHN MATTHEWS NATIONAL HEALTH AND MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA PURPOSE OF VISIT: To serve as the advance party for a formal visit by the Royal Commissioner for the "Royal Commission on the Use and Effects of Chemical Agents on Australian Personnel in Vietnam" 20 February Arrive St. Louis, Missouri 21 February 0830-1200 Monsanto Presentation 1300-1800 Briefings by St. Louis Veterans Administration Researchers on the "Vietnam Experience Twin Study" TELEPHONE 314-894-4640 22 February Depart for Dayton, Ohio Visit to Monsanto Research Corporation Research Program "Analytical Studies of TCDD" Discussion with Brehm Laboratory, Wright State University "Analysis of TCDD" 23 February Depart for Cincinnati, Ohio 1300-1700 Visit Dr. Raymond Suskind, Institute of Environmental Health, Kettering Laboratory, 3223 Eden Avenue, TELEPHONE 513-872-5701 Arrive Washington, D.C. late evening 24 February Release of Air Force Health Study Meeting with investigators of Air Force Health Study, Dr. George Lathrop, USAF School of Aerospace Medicine �25-26 February Open 27 February 0830 Dr. Barclay Shepard, Agent Orange Projects Office, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Veterans Administration (VA) TELEPHONE 202-389-5411 0900 Ms. Dorothy Starbuck, Chief Benefits Director, VA 0930 Mr. John Murphy, General Counsel, VA 1030 Dr. John A. Cronvall, Deputy Chief Medical Director, Department of Medicine and Surgery, VA 1100 Courtesy visit to Dr. Donald Custis, Chief Medical Director, Department of Medicine and Surgery, VA 28 February 0900-1130 Briefings ,on New York State Epidemiologic Studies (Dr. Peter Greenwald, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland) 1330-1600 Briefings on Agent Orange Exposure Studies (Mr. Richard Christian, Army Agent Orange Task Force, Washington, D.C.) 29 February 1000-1200 Briefing by Mr. Arvin Maskin, Agent Orange Litigation, Department of Justice, Washington, D.C. TELEPHONE 202-724-6744 Joint meeting with Veteran Organizations 1-2 March Visit to Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia Hosts: Dr. David Erickson and Dr. Vernon Houk 3-4 March Open �5 March 1000-1200 Meeting with the Agent Orange Working Group, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. (Dr. Edward N. Brandt, Jr., Chair Pro Tempore, Assistant Secretary for Health) 1530-1600 Visit to Dr. Alvin L. Young, Office of Science and Technology Policy TELEPHONE 202-395-3125 6 March 0830-1430 Meeting of the VA Advisory Committee on Health Effects of Herbicides Veterans Administration Central Office, Washington, D.C. 1500 Mr. Harry Walters, Administrator, Veterans Administration DEPART 7 March �DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES February 1, 1984 Office of the Secretary Washington, D.C. 20201 NOTE TO DR. BRANDT I thought you might be interested in the debate on Agent Orange in the House prior to passage of HR 1961. A previous Chair of AOWG, HHS General Counsel Bernstein is quoted on pp. H-221 during Tom bashle's remarks. Montgomery and Hammerschmidt both address the sunset clause in the Bill re the CDC "results" in 1988, 89. Shall we distribute these on Thursday? ^ I-< i ^ *'— oLv-s With reference to the PHS/VA Liaison Committee of Tuesday, and Murray Weinstein's fascinating presentation on spinal cord injury and the VA's remarks, how do you wish to proceed with regard to the Secretary's meeting with the PVA? I thought once we had the reports from Tuesday's meeting a synopsis briefing paper should be prepared for the Secretary and probable issues to be raised by the PVA. For your information, the Secretary met with the Committee on Disabled Veterans of the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped last week (January 26) and reaffirmed her desire to work with all veterans service organizations and support their efforts. I attach a copy of Dixon Arnett's report to the White House on the meeting. ^—> _ / •"^— Dr. Peter E.M. Beach Director of Veterans Affairs Attachment TRACE �January 30,1984 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE LINE-ITEM VETO CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT (Mr. GEKAS uked and was given permission to address the House for I minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. GEKAS. Mr. Speaker, I understand that the Chair has ruled that in order for a unanimous-consent request to be made that we, must obtain the clearance of both the minority leadership and the majority leadership. The SPEAKER. The gentleman is correct. Mr. GEKAS. In that regard, then, having had the good fortune to have received the clearance of the minority to offer a unanimous-consent request to consider line-item veto legislation, I would now ask if the majority leadership, through one of Its spokesmen, would also concede a unanimous-consent request for that purpose. The SPEAKER. Has the gentleman's leadership put that request in writing? Mr. GEKAS. No; it has been represented to. me. The SPEAKER. It would be nice to pet him on record. Mr. GEKAS. Is there someone here representing the leadership who can? I represent to the Speaker that that consent has been given to me. The SPEAKER. I thank the gentleman. Mr. GEKAS. I hear no response from the majority leadership, however. If that be the case, I would have to then say that the case for the lineitem veto has met with an obstacle from the failure of the majority to respond to this unanimous-consent request. RESIGNATION AS CHAIRMAN AND APPOINTMENT OF CHAIRMAN OF ROUSE DELEGATION TO CANADA-UNrrED STATES INTERPARLIAMENTARY GROUP The SPEAKER laid before the House the following resignation as Chairman of the House delegation to the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group: COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN ATTARS. • Washington, D.C.^ January Z7. lilt. . Hon. THOJCAS P. O'Ncnx. Jr., Speaker. House of Representatives, Washington, D.C. DEAR MR. SPEAKER: T hereby resign u Chairman of the House delegation to the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group. With best wishes, I am, Sincerely youn, DAJTTE B. FASCKU* Chairman. The SPEAKER. Without objection, the resignation is accepted. There was no objection, O 1220 The SPEAKER. Pursuant to the provisions of 22 U.S.C. 276d, the Chair appoints as Chairman of the U.S. delegation to attend the 25th meeting of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group March 8 through 12, 1984, in Puerto Rico the gentleman from Maryland, Mr. BARNES, APPOINTMENT AS MEMBER OF THE PERMANENT SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE The SPEAKER. Pursuant to clause (Kf), rule X, and clause 1, rule XLVHL the Chair appoints the gentleman from California, Mr. BEILENSOK, as a member of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence to fill the THE DEFICIT "DOWN PAYMENT" existing vacancy thereon. (Mr. BROWN of Colorado asked and was given permission to address the COMMUNICATION FROM THE House for 1 minute and to revise and CLERK OF THE HOUSE extend his remarks.) The SPEAKER laid before the Mr. BROWN of Colorado. Mr. House the following communication Speaker, today's Wall Street Journal from the Clerk of the House of Reprereports some Democratic leaden sentatives: remain unconvinced of the President's WASHIMCTON. D.CL. sincerity in seeking to achieve a down Hon. THOMAS P. O'Nsuuu January 27.1SS4. Jr.. payment reduction of deficits. No The Speaker, House of Representatives*. party has a patent on sincerity when it WashiniFton, D.C. comes to the welfare of our Nation. DEAK MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the perIt would be a tragedy if progress mission granted In Clause 5. Rule in of the toward reducing the deficit is halted Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives, oy pressures emanating from Prdsi- I have the honor to transmit sealed envedential candidates. This House must lopes received from The White House as folnot be held hostage to the ambition of lows: At 12:45 pjn. on Friday, January 37, (I) Presidential candidates no matter 1984 and said to contain • message from *'hat party. President wherein he transmit* the 37 I hope we will be willing to put aside Annual Report on U.S. participation in th Partisan considerations and end the UN.: and (1) At 12:45 p_m. on Friday, January 21 aniping about the possibility of a down Payment. When the American people 1984 and said to contain a message from th J*e such sniping before we have even President wherein he transmits the 2n begun to sit down and talk, they may Annual Report of the Tourism Policy Cour «dly conclude that some of our Mem- dl. With kind regards. I am. bra are more concerned about partiSincerely, Politics than reducing the deficit BENJAM in J. GDTHRM. Our citizens deserve better. Clerk, House of Representative*. H217 REPORT OF ACTTVITIES OF U.S. GOVERNMENT-IN THE UNITED NATIONS DURING 1982-MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES The SPEAKER laid before the House the following message from the President of the United States; which was read and, together with the accompanying papers, referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. (For message, see proceedings of the Senate of Friday, January 27, 1984, at page S297.) SECOND ANNUAL REPORT OF TOURISM POLICY COUNCIL, FISCAL YEAR 1983-MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES The SPEAKER laid before the House the following message from the President of the United States; which was read and, together with the accompanying papers, referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. (For message, see proceedings of the Senate of Friday, January 27, 1984 at page S297.) TWELFTH ANNUAL REPORT ON ADMINISTRATION OF FEDERAL RAILROAD SAFETY ACT OF 1970—MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES The SPEAKER laid before the House the following message from the President of the United States; which was read and. together with the accompanying papers, referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. (For message, see proceedings of the Senate of today. Monday. January 30, 1984.) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER The SPEAKER. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 5, rule I. the Chair announces he win postpone further proceedings today on each motion to suspend the rules on which a recorded vote or the yeas and nays are ordered, or on which the vote is objected to under clause 4 of rule XV. • Such rollcall votes, if postponed, will be taken on Tuesday, January 31, 1984. .AGENT ORANGE AND ATOMIC ^-— VETERANS RELIEF ACT Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker. I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1961) to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide a presumption of service connection for the occurrence of certain diseases related to exposure to herbicides or other environmental hazards or conditions in veterans who served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam era. as amended. The Clerk read as follows: I �H218 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE January 30,1984 H.R. 1961 The Chair recognizes the gentleman Be U enacted by U>< Senate and Haute of from Mississippi (Mr. MONTGOMERY). "(b) The diseases referred to in subsection - (Mr. MONTGOMERY asked and Representative* a/ the United State* of America in Conpreti assembled, That this (a) of thli section are the followingwas given permission to revise and "<!) Leukemia. Act may be cited as the "Agent Orange and •'(2)Polycythemiavera. ' extend his remarks.) Atomic Veteran* Relief Act". "(3) Carcinoma of the thyroid. Sue. 2. The purpose of thli Act U to proGENERAL LEA VI "(c) Benefits may not be paid under this vide certain benefits— Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker, section with respect to a veteran— (1) to veteran* and the survivors of veter"(1) where there 1* affirmative evidence I ask unanimous consent that all ans who served in Southeast Asia during the (b) Vietnam era and suffer from diseases that that the disease described In subsection vet- Members may have 5 legislative days by the mar be attributable to exposure to Agent df this section was not incurredIn the first in which to revise and extend their reeran during service described Orange; and ,. marks, and include extraneous materisection; (2),to veteran* and the survivors of veter- sentence of subsection (a) of thisevidence or al, on the subject of the bill under con"<2) where there is affirmative to ans who participated in atomic testa or the establish that an intercurrent Injury or dis- sideration. occupation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and ease which Is a recognized cause of any of Is there objection suffer from diseases that may be attributa- the diseases described in subsection (b) of toThe SPEAKER.the gentleman from the request of ble to ionizing radiation, this section has been suffered between the notwithstanding that there is insufficient date of the veteran's separation from service Mississippi? There was no objection. medical evidence to conclude that such dis- and the onset of such disease. eases are service connected. • Mr. MONTGOMERY, Mr. Speaker, "« 453. Rate* of disability and death allowances Sec. 3. (a) Title 38, United States Code. I* "A disability allowance payable to a veter- I yield myself 4 minutes. amended by inserting after chapter 13 the Mr. Speaker, following extensive an under this chapter shall be paid at the following new chapter hearings by the Committee on Veter11 of this "CHAPTER 14-DISABIUTY AND rates provided in chapter disability oftitle, ans' Affairs, I am pleased to bring to the DEATH AUX3WANCES FOR CERTAIN based upon the degree of disease estab- the floor of the House H.R. 1961, a bill veteran attributable to the VETERANS AND SURVIVORS lishing eligibility for such allowance. A that would provide a temporary dis"Sec. death allowance payable under this section "451. Agent Orange veterans and survivors. to the survivors of a veteran shall be paid to ability, or death, allowance for veter"452. Atomic veterans and survivors. such survivors based upon the eligibility re- ans who served in Southeast Asia "453. Rates of disability and death allow- quirements and rates applicable to pay- during the Vietnam era and were exances. posed to agent orange, and who later ments uner chapter 13 of this title. "454. Other benefits. suffered from three specific disabil"8 454. Other benefit* "455. Termination of chapter. "A disease establishing eligibility for a dis- ities. "6 451. Afent Orange reUntni and iiirvivon ability allowance under this chapter shall be The bill would also provide a disabil"(a) In the case of a veter&n who served, treated for -purposes of all other-laws of the ity, or death, allowance for veterans on active duty In Southeast Asia during the United States (other than chapters 11 and who participated in the testing of nuVietnam era and who after such service suf- 13 of this title) as if such disease were serv- clear devices or in the occupation of fers from a disease described in subsection ice connected, and receipt of-a disability al(b) of this section, the Administrator shall lowance under this chapter shall be treated Hiroshima or Nagasaki during World pay a disability allowance to the veteran for purposes of all other laws of the United War II, and who later suffered from and, if the veter&n dies from .such disease, a States as if such allowance were service-con- three serious conditions. death allowance to the survivors of the vet- nected compensation under chapter 11 of Mr. Speaker, there has been much eran. Such allowances shall be paid at the this title. Receipt of a death allowance controversy concerning the long-term rates prescribed In section 453 of this title, under this chapter shall be treated for pur- health effects that may be related to "(b) The diseases referred to in subsection poses of all other laws of the United States service in Vietnam and exposure to (a) of this section are the following: as if such allowance were dependency and "(1) Soft-tissue sarcoma becoming mani- indemnity compensation under chapter 13 agent orange. The reported bill is a compromise measure that we worked fest within twenty years from the date of of this title. the veteran's departure from Southeast "B 455. Termination of chapter out in the full committee. The bill we Asia. "This chapter shall terminate on the bring to the floor today passed the full "(2) Porphyria cutanea tarda becoming by day of the first month beginning after manifest within one year from the date of firstend of the one-year period beginning on committee feel vote of 30 to 0. Some the measure Is inadthe veteran's departure from Southeast the date the Administrator submits to the Members the equate, and they will speak later in Asia. committees of Congress the the debate. Some Members feel we "(3) Chloracne becoming manifest within appropriate required report one year from the date of the veteran's de- first Veterans Healthby section 307(bX2) of should not enact legislation until the the Programs Extension agent orange study, now being convparture from Southeast Asia. "(c) Benefits may not be paid under this and Improvement Act of 1978 (Public Law ducted by the Centers for Disease 96-181).". section with respect to a veteran— (b) The tables of chapters begin- Control in Altanta, has been conclud"(1) where there is affirmative evidence ning o'f title 38, United States at the and at ed, Code, that the disease described in subsection (b) the beginning of part II of such title, are Mr. Speaker, the CDC study is not of this section was not incurred by the vet- amended by inserting after the item relatexpected to be completed until 1988 or eran during service in Southeast Asia during ing to chapter 13 the following new Item: the Vietnam era; or 1989. The measure before us today is "(2) where there is affirmative evidence to "14. Disability and Death Allowclearly a compromise pending the final ances for Certain Veterans and • establish that an intercurrent injury or dis„ __ 451". results of the CDC study. This bill is ease which is a recognized cause of any of ' Survivors an SEC, 4. This Act shall take effect on Octo- not yearexpensive measure. The first the diseases described in subsection (b) of cost of this bill would be $4.7 ber 1. 1983. No benefit may be paid for any full this section has been suffered between the period before such date by reason of the en- million. Those costs are .assumed in date of the veteran's separation from service the first concurrent budget resolution actment of this Act and the onset of such disease. "1452. Atomic veteran* and lurvivor* The SPEAKER. Is a second demand- adopted by the Congress. As chairman of the committee, I am "(srf In the case of a veteran who while on ed? active duty participated In the testing of an Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT. , Mr. pleased with the progress we have made to bring to the floor a measure atomic bomb or device, or who while on Speaker, I demand a second. active duty participated in the occupation of The SPEAKER. Without objectipn, focusing attention on this issue. I wan( Hiroshima or Nagasaki during World War a second will be considered as ordered. to thank the ranking minority II, and who within' twenty years from the member of the full committee, Mr. There was no objection. date of the veteran's participation in the The SPEAKER. The gentleman HAMMERSCHMIDT, for his cooperation; test or occupation suffers from a disease de- from Mississippi (Mr. MONTGOMERY) the distinguished chairman of the subscribed in subsection (b> of this section, the will be recognized for 20 minutes and committee. Mr. APPLEGATE, for the Administrator shall pay a disability allow- the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. leadership he has shown; for the coopance to the veteran and, if the veteran dies from such disease, a death allowance to the HAMMERSCHMIDT) will be recognized eration and support given by the dissurvivors of the veteran. Such allowances for 20 minutes. tinguished gentleman from Ohio, the \ �January W, 1984 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE ranking majority member of the subcommittee. BOB McEww. • Finally Mr. Speaker, I want to compliment the chief sponsor of the bill, TOM DASCHLE, ft distinguished member of the committee, for the major role he played in this legislation. Be has certainly been a strong advocate In the committee to move the bill to the House floor. In addition, I want to thank Dr. ROY ROWLAND, the distinguished gentleman from Georgia, who' has just completed his first year as a member of our committee. I am most grateful to all members of the committee who have given so much of their time attending hearings, and markup sessions in order to get this bill to the floor. The attendance of our members has been outstanding. . I now yield 4 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from Ohio (Mr. APPLECATE). the chairman of the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension and Insurance. Mr. APPLEGATE. Mr. Speaker, thank you, Chairman MONTGOMERY, for yielding to me this time. Mr. Speaker, I am very happy to be able to stand here today and present the bill, H.R. 1961 to my colleagues in the House of Representatives. When I came here in 1977,1 made a commitment £o the Vietnam veterans that there should be some kind of a compensation program to take care of a disease which was first officially diagnosed many years after service but undoubtedly had its start during that service. Although this is not something new, the highly complex medical questions presented by agent orange are so novel and unique that innovative approaches by the Congress are warranted. Unlike injuries incurred during conflict, medical problems which might be related to exposure to this toxic chemical may not surface many times until years after the veteran has returned home. It is these veterans, our Vietnam veterans, who were exposed to agent orange and who suffer from the specific disabilities listed in the bill which are our concern today. Members of our committee have demonstrated their strong desire to respond to the apprehension and concern among some Vietnam veterans and their families. During the 97th Congress, we enacted legislation givingmedical care to Vietnam veterans whose medical problems could possibly be related to exposure to agent orange or to radiation while in service. We are spending close to $100million on a study by the Centers Tor IMseas'e Control to find the answers. But these answers will not be available for several years. The bill we are considering today is a stopgap measure. As Chairman MONTGOMERY said, it will provide a temporary disability or death allowance for veterans who served In Southeast Asia during the Vietnam war and may have been exposed to agent orange or who were exposed to low- level ionizing radiation while participating in testing of nuclear devices or in the occupation of Hiroshima or Nagasaki. The bill would provide effective October 1, 1983, monetary benefits for agent orange veterans if they are shown to have soft tissue sarcoma within 20 years from the time they left Vietnam or if they have a liver condition called PCT or the skin condition chlpracne within 1 year from leaving. Similarly, benefits would be provided for veterans who participated in the testing of nuclear devices while in service or occupied Hiroshima or Nagasaki and who suffer from leukemia, cancer of the thyroid, or polycythernia vera, a bone marrow disease, within 20 years from their exposure to such radiation. If the disabilities are shown to exist within the time limits in the bill, payments would be at the same rates as if the disabilities were service connected. I also want to point out that this bill has a sunset clause. Benefits would terminate 1 year after the agent orange study is received by the Congress. This means that we- will have 1 full year in which to decide what we need to do after we have what we hope will be the answers to a lot of our questions. The bill has a modest cost of $4.7 million for the first year, increasing to only $5.4 million 5 years from now. Mr. Speaker, as Chairman MONTGOMERY said, this has been a highly emotional issue, but I want to point out again that the Veterans' Affairs Committee is nonpartisan and proveteran and while we had considerable disagreement during our consideration of the bill, we recognized that something had to be done. We worked out a compromise which some members of the committee'feel does not go far enough. Others feel maybe it goes too far. But in the end, we all knew we had to act and it was in this spirit that agreement was reached. I just want to say that the final committee vote on ordering the bill reported was 30 to 0, once again showing how the Veterans' Affairs Committee works together for veterans. I would be remiss if I did not say at this time how much assistance I received from my colleague from Ohio, BOB MCEWEN, the ranking minority member on the subcommittee as well as Chairman MONTGOMERY and Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT, the ranking minority member of the full committee. Mr. ROWLAND of Georgia gave us the benefit of his experience in the field of medicine. And it goes without saying that without the perserverance and vigor of the gentleman from South Dakota (ToM DASCHLE), this bill would never have, gotten off-the ground. Mr. Speaker, this is a reasonable and limited approach to a problem which will not go away. It Is a good bill and I urge my colleagues in the House to Join me in giving overwhelming approval of H.R. 1961. H219 Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. ' (Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT. Mr. Speaker,-I join with my colleague, the distinguished chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs. Committee, the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. MONTGOMERY), in support of the legislation before the House, H.R. 1961. My colleague from .Mississippi has, •as usual, provided diligent and responsible leadership in shepherding this matter through the committee, and I offer only the highest praise for his efforts. Many members of the committee are to be commended for their contributions in bringing this legislation to the floor. The gentleman from Ohio (Mr. APPLEGATE), chairman of the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension, and Insurance, has worked long and diligently toward the resolution of a very complicated issue. His leadership has been of great value. The Subcommittee's ranking member, the gentleman from Ohio,' Mr. BOB McEwEN, has also contributed much time, energy and guidance in assuring that this bill is the best possible solution to a complex problem. The gentleman from South Dakota, of course, has played a major role on H.R. 1961. He and others have had and retain very strong concerns about one of the most perplexing veterans issues of our time. They would have gone further on this bill than most of us. On the other hand, Mr. Speaker, there are many—and I am among them—who feel strongly that we ought to legislate very cautiously in a field of medicine that thus far is devoid of the scientific expertise that ought to be available before laws are passed by the Congress. Mr. Speaker, a sense of cooperation and compromise caused a broad committee consensus on this bill. We cast a 30-to-O vote to report the bill to the floor. We did this after hearing many witnesses from the veterans' Administration and other Government and civilian medical experts. Veterans appearing alone or represented by the several major veterans organizations, offered valuable testimony and insight into this important matter. Mr. Speaker, during the hearings on this bill, I made it very clear that I had serious reservations about providing compensation for diseases not yet scientifically linked to the doxin known as agent orange. I reminded my colleagues that the Congress, through previous legislation had authorized comprehensive studies to be carried out to determine the relationship, if any, between those diseases and agent orange, and that we ought to be very cautious as to preempting the study results. But, Mr. �H 220 . . . CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE Speaker, we all knew that data from many of these studies would not be available for some time and that some data already existed even though it was not accepted by some as being actually valid and even though It was said to be in need of further scientific analysis. Simply stated, our committee was faced with Betting a precedent in veterans legislation by providing compensation to a limited number of veterans prior to conclusive evidence about the source oretiology of their disease. The question therefore came down to whether or not we ought to wait for those study results or whether we ought to do at least that which is called for by the bill before us. We chose the latter course. In so doing, we recalled that a spokesman from the Veterans' Administration testified before our committee—and I quote htm. It ma; well be that the Congress cannot wait for scientific answers in the short term, in which case It may well be that the sociopolitical aspect of this problem will have to be addressed. We do that addressing in this bill There is another aspect of the bill, Mr. Speaker, that, in my view, was not as difficult to resolve, and that is the relief sought for certain veterans ex-, posed to Ionizing radiation, either during atomic testing or while part of the Armed Forces occupying Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Medical evidence has detailed many health and lifethreatening aspects of such radiation exposure although again, even on this issue, we do not have a complete scientific picture. But certainly, Mr. Speaker, it is wellknown that radiation exposure has caused some types of cancer. I think that the proponents of this aspect of H.R. 1961 stand on a well-built platform of knowledge as compared to the one still under construction for agent orange. In this connection I want to commend the gentleman from Georgia, Dr. ROWLAND, for this contribution as to this aspect of the bilL Finally, Mr.,Speaker, the sunset provision of this bill does offer the Congress an opportunity to reexamine the issue upon completion of the studies now underway. At that time, we may see that our action here today was both beneficial and foresighted and even that much more will have to be done. Of course the opposite may be true and we hope that it is, for then the very real fears and apprehensions of a large number of veterans and their families would be.overcome. Mr. Speaker, the Veterans' Affairs Committee is dedicated to serving the best interests of the men and women who served their country. They did not ask for the conditions military duty imposed on them, but accepted those conditions without' hesitation. They stood tall and many endured hardships and suffered disabilities beyond description. Sometimes those disabilities came Into view later in life _ January SO, 1984 and this may be true of the Vietnam popular war are now sick with old and atomic veterans covered by H.R men's diseases, to not enough basis to 1961. These kinds of individuals are warrant comDensaUon. this Nation has the very special charges of the Con- no title tothe*reatness we aD claim gress of the United States and we for It. ought to resolve reasonable doubt in Veterans wlUi «ofUissue cancer, their favor as to the origin of their dif- liver disorder known as porphyriacuficulties. Just as their service te record tanea tarda, and a skin condition of faith In this Government, we have a called chloracne will be eligible for duty to stand tall with them. It U compensation and other benefits from therefore my position on H.R. 1961 the Veterans' Administration, that, while it Is imperfect as to science, I have been contacted by a number it la mandated by our country's obliga- of veterans who have these conditions: tion to a special group of veterans and veterans like Thomas Radon, of OrlanI urge its passage by the House. do, Fla.; David Maier. of Bay Village. Mr. Speaker; I reserve the balance of Ohio; Monte Baird, -of Sacramento, my time. \ Calif.; Bill Poe, of Mesquite. Tex.; Jim Blackmore, of Oak Forest, 111.; Sandy Q 1240 Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker, Buselli of Dunmore, Pa- who has only months to and others. I yield 4 minutes to the gentlman from a few are men who live, been permahave South Dakota (Mr. DASCHLX). the These disfigured, in some cases are nently chief author of H.R. 1961. have (Mr. DASCHLE asked and was given unable to work, andcosts. accumulated staggering medical This legislapermission to revise and extend his re- tion will help defray future medical marks and Include extraneous matter.) costs and provide a modest income for Mr. DASCHLE. Mr. Speaker. I rise in support of H.R. 1961, the Agent those unable to provide for their famiOrange "and Atomic Veterans Relief lies. Act. This legislation is the culmination Though very few wfll benefit, an imof several days of often contentious portant addition to this .legislation is recognition of certain hearings and a great deal of hard congressional by "World. War II and work. It is far from a perfect bill and I claims filed veterans with conditions alert my colleagues to a special order Korean era Veterat the close of business on Tuesday, related to radiation exposure. the ocwhere we hope to elaborate on this ans who served in Japan with nuclear forces or legislation. But this is a beginning and cupationduring the witnessed early 1950's and its adoption will further the reconcili- testing who have leukemia, thyroid 1960*s ation process between this Govern- cancer, or polycythemla-vera—a blood ment and the veterans who fought in disorder—will also be eligible for comthe unpopular Vietnani war. House ap- pensation. Such recognition is overdue proval wUl be a landmark decision and as medical science has long recognized an implicit acknowledgment that their these conditions as radiation related. are long-term health effects from exIt has been nearly 6 ^years since the posure to the dioxin contaminated deconcerns about possible long-term foliant, agent orange. IS agent orajigq rpflllT thT — Y"*** health effects from exposure to the The experts say they do not know for dioxincontaminated defoliant, agent certain as exposure is difficult to orange, first came to light. Conern measure. There were many new. ex- continues to grow about the potential perimental drugs, herbicides, and in- health effects of exposure to dioxin as secticides used in large quantities in exemplified by the Government's deciSoutheast Asia that could be combin- sion to buy-out Times Beach. Mo. We ing to have a synergistic effect on also know from the Air Force that these men and women. Though these over a 9-year period—late 1961-71— chemicals may very well have saved herbicides containing 368 pounds of lives in the short term, they may be pure dioxin were dumped in Vietnam responsible for a national tragedy in on an area the size of Connecticut. the long term. Studies conducted over Dioxin, known as the most toxic syththe next 5 years should greatly im- entic chemical known to man, has prove our existing knowledge of the caused cancer in test animals at the chemicals used in Vietnam as well as parts per trillion level. For these reaabout the health of the Vietnam vet- sons and others, conerns among Vietnam veterans about the effects of this eran as a population. Despite the nay-sayers claims that chemical on their health have justifithe modest benefits awarded in H.R. ably heightened as welL I wish my 1961 are not deserved, one thing is for speech on the House floor tqday could sure, the past few years have produced signal the end of these concerns about a legitimate list of scientific evidence agent orange, but unfortunately It and professional concern to Indict cannot.' both the herbicide agent orange, and We nonetheless have taken an imits chemical contaminant, dioxin, to portant interim step today, a step the degree that It will probably never which bunds on earlier actions rebe used nor produced in this country quired by Congress which include; auagain. thorizatlon of the largest epeldemioIf this fact, coupled with unusual logy study ever attempted, and aucircumstances where young men who thorization of priority health care in served their Nation valiantly in an un- the VA system for veterans who be- �January 39,1984 i CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE lieve their health infirmities were caused by exposure to toxic chemicals during the war. Despite the limited scope of this legislation, there are those who insist that we should have incontrovertible proof that agent orange b the culprit before awarding benefits. Unfortunately, as former HHS Oerepd CffV"* sel Joan Bernstein has tesufied-"even vllblU oTw our scientists are capable may not produce definitive, incontrovertible scientific Information about the medical affects of agent orange" and that "full answers may never be found." The principal tool of scientists studying agent orange and dioxin, epidemiology studies, are not even designed to elicit a cause and effect relationship, rather they try instead to determine risk levels. Those who desire vigorous, incontrovertible proof are expecting more than science can deliver and are therefore setting standards that will be virtually impossible to meet. Those who thus insist on incontrovertible roof before providing the modest mefits available in H.R. 1961 in my pinion would probably also insist on itnessing the second coming of rist before believing in God. I salute Members of the House for not requiring such impossible standards. This is not to say that we do not have a substantial record of evidence which already links agent orange to long-term health effects. We do. The current record reveals herblcide-related cancers in Western Europe, cancers in occupationally exposed U.S. workers, excessive cancers among white women in Midland, Mich.—where herbicides have been produced—and cancer in multiple animal species by multiple routes of exposure. This record will expand as a number of scientific studies currently underway provide additional information over the next few years. I would also like to comment on the Ranjjh Hand study, which many people believe will be an important Indicator in determing the health effects of agent orange. Though I do not believe that one can casually assume that the type, level, and length of exposure of these Air Force personnel can be extrapolated to the exposure experience of ground units, important information will nonetheless result from this study. Though it is too soon to draw firm conclusions on mortality figures, initial findings are of interest. Enlisted personnel, which the Air Force admits were "far more exposed than the officer personnel," had a less favorable mortality rate than their nonherbicide exposed peers. In addition, there was an excess of digestive dist >rd.fr ^"tihSi The Air Force claims, however, that digestive mortality, and a paucity of cancer deaths are statistically nonsignificant. Morbidity data from this study of those who dispensed agent orange In Vietnam will be available late in February and H221 should provide further Information on The second would create an open, public procedure by which the VA can clarify how these concerns. Though I support the bill we ap- much and what kind of proof U >UU neceta*ry before additional Agent Orange claim* proved today, I do have some concerns can be approved. These proposal* were ofabout It as It now exists. In the form of an amendment One significant addition to the bill fered during committee considerationto H.R. 1961 of the wil] result in compensation for a bill. They were rejected on a 17-13 vote of modest number of World War n and the committee. _ Korean era veterans suffering from Results from several scientific studies are leukemia, thyroid cancer, and polycy- expected In the months ahead which should themia-vera—a blood disorder—condi- reveal a great deal more about Agent tions related to-atomic radiation expo- Orange and It* effect* on human*. Yet. in the word* sure. This Is a long-overdue action Service the-of the Congressional Research Impact studies will be that should greatly assist a few very 111 unclear, a* "^the VAof the*e established any has not veterans. formal criteria for how their policies might Unfortunately, the bill significantly be altered by scientific findings." Therefore, restricts eligibility for benefits to the discovery of Illness In a medical or scienthese "atomic veterans" by limiting tific study could easily go Ignored. The propayments to those whose condition posal offered in the committee would have that as first originated within 20 years of ensuredthere willthesea new studies are pubbe certain and orderly their services discharge. The vast ma- lished to determine study conclusions and jority of veterans, with radiation-in- process their relevancy to veterans' compensation duced conditions were discharged claims. during the 1940's and 1950's. The 20- There Is also a great deal of concern about year restriction for initial manifesta- the declslonmaking process within the Vettion of these conditions has expired erans Administration with respect to Agent for the vast majority of these men a Orange compensation. There are no standguidelines by long time ago. In my view, the Veter- ards or Justifies its availablethat which the no ans' Committee should seriously con- agency chloracne, position from Illness, Agent sider extending the 20-year limit by at except exposure. results Daschle/Smith Orange The least 10 years. amendment would have established a proceSimilar restrictions were applied to dure by which the agency would provide agent orange claims as well. Though I Justification for their decision with regard believe a 20-year "presumptive period" to compensation for various disease categois reasonably accurate for soft-tissue ries. Other federal agencies such as the Encancer, I am concerned about 1-year vironmental Protection Agency and Occupainlimitations on pprphvria. cutanea tarfl*. tional Safety and Health Administrationrisk volved In and chloracne. Hearings on H.R. 1961 follow clearassessing toxic chemical for revealed that most soldiers In Vietnam making such and established guidelines determinations. It Is a matter did not bother to have what were con- of sound policy and we see no reason why sidered at the time, minor ailments, the Veterans Administration should be such as skin conditions and rashes, re- exempt from such a requirement. corded In their service records. After several day* of bearings on H.R. Though a 1-year "presumptive period" 1961 it became abundantly clear that an Adto perhaps'accurately reflects the time visory Committee was necessary simply the viewpoints on when the condition would ordinarily sort out the conflicting and their relationmany scientific studies first occur from the point of exposure, ship to Agent Orange claims. Independent chloracne is known to persist for 25 to analysis of this Information would ensure 30 years. Thus, a chloracne-type condi- that viewpoints contrary to agency positions tion may have originated well within receive fair and expeditious consideration. the 1-year limitation period but was There are also distinct advantages In thi* never recorded. I believe we could approach for the Veterans Administration. have been more generous In this in- The VA Administrator ultimately select* Advisory Committee members, determine stance. meet or not Finally, Representative CHRIS SMITH when theyIs evenand whether Agency compensation warranted. deciand I offered an amendment to re- sions on compensation could be corroboratquire establishment of an Independent ed by Advisory Committee recommendaadvisory committee and guidelines for tions. resolution, of agent orange claims. It Is therefore our belief that as additional Though our amendment was defeated scientific studies are released, the Advisory Committee would ensured fair and exin ~a committee vote, I would like Jto •peditlous analysis have information directly of have printed in the RECORD the addi- relevant to Agent Orange claims. It Is our tional views of several committee hope that the committee will renew considmembers In support of this effort. eration of these proposals duimg the second '• ADDITIONAL VIEWS The Veterans' Affairs Committee took an important first step In reporting an amended version of H.R. 1961. However, even with the passage of this legislation, questions relating to Agent Orange compensation will be considered for some time. Many veteran* will continue to be frustrated by the inability of this legislation to meet their legitimate needs. Two steps In our view would greatly address these concerns. One Is the creation of an Independent advisory committee to objectively analyze all new and existing scientific evidence pertaining to dloxin exposure. session of the 98th Congress. Tom Daschle, Christopher Smith, Robert Edgar, Marcy Kaptur, Matthew Martinez, Harley Staggers. Jr., Jim Slattery. Bill Richardson, John Bryant, Frank Harrison, Tim Penny, . Lane Evans. Though there were . disagreements about the scope of this legislation, a number of individuals deserve recognition for helping this legislation get to where It is today. The distinguished and able chairman of the committee. SONNY MONTGOMERY, as well as the �H222 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE ranking minority member, JOHN PAUL HAHMZKSCKMIDT. dtsavt mnch credit for insuring unanimous committee approval of the Ml. Compensation and Pensions Subcommittee chairman, DOUG API-LEGATE, and ranking minority member, BOB McEwra. were active hearing participants and instrumental in seeing the bill through subcommittee. Also deserving thanks to BOB EDGAH for his commitment and support during this lengthy process. Finally, the Vietnam Veterans of America, American Legion. Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS, Jewish War Veterans, and Vietnam Veterans Agent Orange Victims, deserve a great deal of credit for their support and efforts on behalf of H.R. 1961. It is my hope that these .members and organizations wQl now commit themselves to encourage Senate passage and President Reagan's endorsement Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3.minutes to the very able chairman of the Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. EDGAR). (Mr. EDGAR asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. EDGAR. Mr. Speaker, as an original cosponsor of H.R. 1961, the Agent Orange and Atomic Veterans Relief Act, I rise in full support of the legislation. As chairman 'of the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care and a member of the committee since 1975. I can attest to the fact that the subject of agent orange has been one of the most serious and persistent problems we have faced. In 1978, our colleague, the gentleman from California, DON EDWARDS, and I were the first members of the committee to call for hearings on the issue of agent orange. We have, since that time, held at least nine hearings reviewing scientific data, and the concerns of veterans and their families in attempting to reach a consensus on the issue. Where the scientific community was uncertain as to the range of disabilities which could be attributed to exposure to agent orange in humans,, there was general agreement on three basic points: Dioxin is one of the most highly toxic substances known to man. Second, during a 10-year period from 1961 to 1971 approximately 52 million pints of the herbicide were sprayed in South Vietnam. Third, there was a growing concern among the Vietnam veteran population that not only then* health, but the welfare of their families had been adversely affected by exposure. The VA has conducted over 130,000 agent orange health screening exanri• nations. Nearly 11,000 Vietnam veterans in my-own State of Pennsylvania have gone to the Veterans Administration for examinations and .agent orange counseling. During the «7th CongresB the Congress approved our legislation, now law. Public Law 97-73 which provides bjegltbucare in VAroedical facilities lor veteranswho have disabilities which could be associated with exposure to agent orange and ionizing radiation. Based on far less evidence than last year, the present, administration1 awarded $31, million to relocate the families ofTimfig B^acji, Mo., who only may have oeen exposed To dioxin in the soil around their homes, . On these precedents and further scientific evidence it only seems appropriate that we move forward at this point with the presumptions for compensation for three specific diseases: chloracne—a skin condition. Porpbyria Cutanea Tarda—a liver disorder, and soft tissue sarcomas. In the same vein, our committee has attempted to deal with the residual effects of exposure to ionizing radiation among the "Atomic Veteran" population. Between 1945 and 1963 the D.S. Government exploded approximately 235 atmospheric nuclear devices. Approximately 200,000 American service personnel were exposed to ionizing radiation during that time, or during the clean-up operations in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Again, as with the agent orange -question, there has been disagreement in the scientific community as to the exact disabilities brought on by varying degrees of radiation. But still, the existing evidence was strong enough to warrant, at a minimum, at this time, a presumption of disability for three specific diseases: cancer of the thyroid, Polycythemia vera—a bone disease, and leukemia if those disabilities appear within 20 years of exposure. Mr. Speaker, it is very clear that we have taken an important first step in bringing this bill to the floor. It does not go as far as the bill we originally introduced nor does it include additional means of requiring that the VA submit additional disabilities which could be compensable as a result of exposure to these environmental hazzards that was contained in an amendment before the committee. There are many of us on the committee who are also concerned that the presumptive periods called for, for both Vietnam veterans and atomic veterans, are unrealistically short Still, the bill is a beginning, and the House, at least is taking this important first step in behalf of those who have served their country and now seek our help. I would like to express my deep appreciation to the gentleman from South Dakota, the original author of this legislation, TOM DASCHLE for his persistence and his dedication to this issue. I would also like to thank the leadership of the committee. Chairman MONTGOMERY, and Ranking Minority Member JOHB PACT, January SO, for their leadership and willingness to compromise to seek this solution. Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker. I yield cuch time as he may consume to the gentleman from California <Mr. FAZIO). (Mr. FAZIO asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. FAZIO. Mr. Speaker, today we are considering legislation that will provide a measure of relief that is long overdue for the thousands of veterans suffering from illnesses attributable to | agent orange and atomic radiation exposure. These veterans provided our country with patriotic service under hazardous conditions. Indeed, the full extent of the hazards faced by Vietnam veterans exposed to toxic herbicides containing dioxin, such as agent orange, .and who suffer from Illnesses linked to that exposure is not yet fully known. Likewise, veterans who served in the occupation forces in Hiroshima and Nagasaki immediately following World War LT .and those who have since participated in atmospheric nuclear tests were serving in the midst of hidden dangers that are only now coming to light This legislation, which provides disability benefits to these veterans or their survivors, is only the first step we must take to insure that this type of hazard is never faced by our service men and women in the future. There is a growing concern and interest in Congress to find out all we can about the potential health effects of exoc-r sure to nuclear radiation and agent orange—both manmade environmental hazards of military service. These veterans served their country in good faith and honorably fulfilled their obligations. With the passage of H.R. 1961 Congress can demonstrate that we will not turn our backs OB our responsibilities to those who served their country at a great personal sacrifice. Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. ROWLAND), a member of the committee, who has been very helpful on this legislation. Mr. ROWLAND, Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend and distinguished chairman of the full committee for his strong support and for giving me this time, I also thank my good friend, the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT), for the great part that he has played in this, as well as the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. API-LEGATE), the gentleman from New York (Mr. McHucR), and other member* of the committee for the work that thejr have done. Mr. Speaker. I rise today in support of the Agent Orange and Atomic Veteran* Relief Act. Legislation which I introduced with my good friend and colleague. Mr. HAKXERSCHMIM, HR f the •*?' **** Pertaining to vet- �January 30, i9&4 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD— HOUSE erans exposed to agent orange. I want to address the portion of HJt. 3909 that have been made a part of this important legislation. The bill represents * landmark tax that, at long last the Government IB recognizing. the unknown risk* t» which some of our soldiers, were exposed in the line of duty. Over 230,000 military personnel have been exposed to varying levels of ionizing radiation. Even though we do not know the name of every person who was exposed, and in most cases, we da not know the extent of the exposure, the carcinogenic effects of radiation have been accepted for many years. In 1934, after prolonged exposure to X-rays. Madame Currie died from leukemia. Radiation exposure has a documented effect on the reticulo endothelial system. BLR. 1961 establishes a temporary disability program for veterans who have manifested one of three diseases within 20 years of their exposure to radiation: leukemia, which is the proliferation of the white cell producing' elements in bone marrow; polycythemia vera, the proliferation of the red blood cell producing elements in bone marrow; and "thyroid cancer. Studies by the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta have shown the incidence of leukemia to be three times as high for veterans exposed during the Smoky nuclear test in Nevada, and for polychthemia vera, 10 times as nigh. It is interesting to note that during the Baker tests in the South Pacific, contaminated salt-water was ingested by military personnel Saltwater which has a heavy concentration of iodine, when radiated turns to Im, a radJoisotope. This radiated iodine is then stored in the thyroid glands of those who ingested the salt-water spray. The problem with identifying the cause and effects of radiation induced cancers and disorders is that It takes years for the original injury to manifest itself as an observable malignant neoplasm. Beta emitters can even be incorporated into parts of the body to irradiate internally. These problems with just identifying the. disorders in a timely manner are compounded by the factors other than scientific which have entered into the research on this subject. However, it is the responsibility of the Government to at least give, the benefit of the doubt to those veterans who have risked their lives for our common good. -Although the 20-year manifestation period Is to short to do many veterans any good, perhaps their survivors will find some solace in the inclusions of death benefits in this legislation. This is a bipartisan bill that offers hope to a large group of patriotic veterans who have for too long felt that x their pleas for recognition and accounting have gone unheeded. The Agent Orange and Atomic Vet, ' erans Relief Act is the cornerstone H22S upon which we can bufld the truth, de- this lingering problem which wfll not termine responsibility, and provide ap- disappear. propriate compensation. I urge my colOthers who oppose this bfll argu* leagues' support of this modest MR. that we are abandoning reason for the sake of compassion. They want us to D 135ft wait onto all the evidence ii In. which Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT. Mr. perhaps will never occur for some oprSpeaker; I yield 2 minutes to a very ponents. This House must draw a diaable member of our committee, the tmctlon between what la 8f*f"f gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kirrtm). proven "beyond a shadow of a doubt,» ' I (Ms. KAPTUR asked and was given and what is morally responsible under' permission to revise and extend" hex re- the laws of this land. I believe'that at marks. J some point a line must be drawn as to Ms. KAPTOK. MX. Speaker, as a co- how mucn evidence must be obtained, sponsor of the Agent Orange and. before action can be taken to assist Atomic Veterans Relief Act, I rise to- dying and seriously HI Vietnam and urge my colleagues to vote for this atomic veterans. I need only to point vftal piece of legislation and compli- to the massive cleanup and relocation ment our distinguished chairman, the effort at Times Beach. Missouri, folgentleman from Mississippi (Mr. lowing the discovery in that communiMONTGOMERY), for his strong leader- ty of the same deadly dioxin known to ship on this, as well as the ranking mi- have been present in agent orange. I nority member, the gentleman from Clearly, other branches of the Federal Arkansas (Mr. HAMMERSCHMUTT), and Government recognize the serious the gentleman from South Dakota health risks associated with dioxin exposure. (Mr. DASCHXK). , At issue Is the integrity and credibilMr. Speaker. I must admit that I am both pleased and saddened to be ity of the VA's compensation program. standing here today speaking in sup- Enactment of this bill would restore port of this bilL I am pleased that we credibility to the VA's policies and to in Congress are taking a step to try to our commitment to compensate veterhelp the Vietnam and atomic veterans. ans for injuries incurred in the service But I am saddened that it has taken so of our country. It is time to shift the long to take such a small step. Passage burden of proof from the veteran to of this till must be only the first step the VA in awarding service-connected in a series of moves to bring justice to disability claims for illnesses attributathese veterans. I am also saddened l ble to dioxin and radiation. that the Veterans' Administration, the In my home area of Toledo, Ohio, I Government agency which is supposed have heard more individual horror stoto abide by its motto, "To care for him ries from families, concerning expowho shall have borne the battle." sure to radiation and agent orange, seems to care very little. than I can recount here. Tragically, The plain and hard fact is that we j suicide has been the answer for some. have not been keeping our commit- Others have withstood the pain and ment to Vietnam and atomic veterans. medical bills, both of which are It is not enough for statements to be deadly. The problems, of course, are Issued each and every Memorial Day compounded by the high unemployor each and every Armistice Day on ment rate in the area. behalf of these people who bravely Repeatedly, my constituent? have served their country. R Is tune for explained to me that this legislation action and the action should be pass- would do more than provide them ing this legislation. with desperately needed benefits. For Many of as In Congress have heard the first time, they say, it would begin from Vietnam and atomic veterans to relieve some of their anxiety. I who are- discouraged, disappointed, know many Vietnam veterans currentand disgusted with the inertia exhibit- ly suffering from chloracne, who ed by the VA. Regrettably, their out- served with others who are currently rage is extremely justified. These vet- dying of soft-tissue sarcoma. Since erans have been turning to their Gov- cancer often does not show up for ernment for answers and assistance, quite a while, many veterans justifiand they have received neither. The ably worry that chloracne is only the result has understandably been anxi- beginning of their problems. This legislation would relieve some of their ety and despair. Some people who oppose this bill anxiety, by proving- that Americans have argued that it has the potential are concerned about them, and that for alarming mfllions of veterans and they wfll be able to afford proper perhaps the population as a whole. treatment if further service-connected But we are alarmed already, and not disabilities appear. I urge my colleagues on both sides of only at the specter of dioxin and radiation. We are also alarmed at the spec- the aisle to support this vital legislater of an indifferent Government tion. For as Mr. Harry Walters, the which inflicts enormous suffering and Administrator of the VA, has so aptly is too callous to assume responsibility. stated: "America is No. 1 thanks to our Rather than alarming Americans, pas- veterans." In appreciation of their valsage of this bill wfll bring relief. iant service, we must insure that they, Americans will be relieved to know receive the care, support, and recognithat we are finally taking action on tion they have earned. The Agent 5/1 �H224 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE January SO. 1984 Orange uul Atomic Veteran* Relief For Vietnam veterans to trust their racks. Tthey had an opportunity to Act Is long overdue. Government, they must believe that clean up. They did not go through any The SPEAKER pro tempore. The somewhere, somehow, there will be an formal -decontamination procedures. Chair will advise that the gentleman end to delays and a time for action. This was not the only test that this inIt is possible to argue that the evi- dividual participated in. from Mississippi has 0 minutes remaining and the gentleman from Ar- dence supporting the disabilities adAt my recommendation this Individdressed in H.R. 1961 is not adequate. ual filed a claim for service-connected kansas has 9 minutes remaining. Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker,. It is not possible, however, to avoid disability with the Veterans' AdminisI yield 3 minutes to the chairman of the next question. tration. He claimed service-connection the Congressional Vietnam Veterans, If this evidence is not enough, them for the cancer he was suffering as a the gentleman from Michigan, Mr. how tall a mountain of material will fi- result of the nuclear tests he particiDAVE BOITIOK. nally be required? pated in during the 1950's. This case, Mr. BONIOR of Michigan. Mr. H.R. 1961 will Insure compensation under the guidelines then in effect, Speaker, I would like at this time to for several thousand Vietnam veter- was denied by the regional office of commend the distinguished chairman ans. This is an important step, but the the Veterans' Administration. During of the full committee, the gentleman bill's importance goes beyond the aid this period I did everything I could to from Mississippi (Mr. MONTGOMERY). it offers individuals. assist my constituent and friend. H.R. 1961 seeks to demonstrate that When the case was before the Board and the distinguished chairman of the subcommittee, the gentleman from whoever else may hesitate, Congress, of Veterans Appeals I appeared perOhio (Mr. AFPLEGATE), for their leader- at least, is prepared to draw a line and sonally at the hearing with this indiship and active support of this legisla- act. vidual to assist him. The Board of VetI urge adoption of the measure. tion, as well as the gentleman from Arerans Appeals remanded the case to Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT. Mr. the regional office for the developkansas (Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT), particularly for his Interest in the atomic vet- Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the dis- ment of further information. The long tinguished chairman of the Committee and the short of this was he was erans part of this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to on Education and Labor, the gentle- denied by the Veterans' Administracommend the distinguished gentleman man from Kentucky (Mr. PERKINS). tion after he died. I considered at that Mr. PERKINS) I thank the gentle- time, and I still do, that the denial of from South Dakota, the present chairman of the Vietnam Veterans in Con- man for yielding this time to me. Mr. Speaker. I am pleased that Con- this individual for service-connection gress Tou DASCHLE, and the author of is arbitrary and capricious. I believed the original bill, for his persistent gressman DASCHLE and the Committee at that time, as I still believe, that the on Vetemans' Affairs has brought to denial of benefits to people like this work-on behalf of Vietnam veterans. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1961 addresses the House, H.R. 1961, legislation individual, as well as the other atomic the dual problem of exposure to agent which addresses the problems suffered veterans, was based upon calculations by our veterans from exposure to by so-called budget analysts as to itsv orange and atomic radiation. The bill is not the hurried answer to a new agent orange during the Vietnam war, impact on the Treasury of granting problem. It does not open the flood as well as those veterans who were ex- these veterans the benefits they degates to future claims nor does it posed to. radiation after the atom serve. I asked the General Accounting reject science in the name of compas- bombings of Japan and during the nu- Office to investigate and see if they clear testing until 1963. As an original could find evidence of this occurring sion. At a yearly cost of just $6 million or cosponsor of this legislation I believe GAO reported back to me that they less, the bill's agent orange presump- that it addresses a major problem could not document that this was the tions are carefully focused on only which our veterans are suffering. My case although one individual at GAO three specific disabilities: Soft tissue only criticism is that it needs to go privately told my assistant that he besarcomas, chloracne and prophyria. In much further but it is definitely a lieved I was correct but they could not each case, substantial evidence exists major step forward. find the necessary proof. relating the disabilities to exposure to The committee acted wisely in I hope that this legislation-will be adding the section concerning atomic agent orange. unanimously. It a veterans -and survivors. Just a few passed The people whoiswillstep forSome 4 years ago, two independent ward. Swedish studies related exposure to years ago I visited a neighbor of mine have served their- Nation andbenefit have 2,4,5-T—a main ingrediant in agent In the hospital who had been diag- been stricken with dread diseases nosed as having cancer. This man had caused by chemicals and nuclear radiorange—and soft tissue cancers. Following the Swedish studies, an in- served his country for many years as ation. It is indeed a tragedy dependent review of four additional an enlisted man in the Air Force until legislation is necessary. The that such denial of groups of exposed American workers his retirement. While I was talking benefits to the victims of agent orange .•with him he told me for the first time and to the victim of nuclear radiation found the same correlation. - ••:.In the distinguished New England that he had participated in several nu- is an inhumane act. I hope that'this Journal of Medicine, two doctors from clear tests in Nevada. During these . legislation will speedily become law Emory University completed the tests he and his fellow soldiers were circle, reporting on three Vietnam vet- required to stand up with their backs and will send a message to the Veterto the blast. The shock wave was so ans' Administration that they are to erans with soft tissue sarcomas. and not some indistrong that it knocked his helmet off serve the veterans opinion as to budgYet even today, the Veterans' Advidual's misguided ministration repeats its -call for more even though he was holding on to it. etary priorities. .. research—and more delays—before Before this person was stricken with cancer he was one of the most robust any compensation is granted. O 1300 Mr. Speaker, there is much we do men I have known. He could engage in Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker. not know about agent orange. Aggres- hard physical labor all day without I thank the gentleman from Connectisive research is required. Nevertheless, slowing down. After the blast this indi- cut for his patience and I now yield 2 there are some things we'do know and vidual and his colleagues were given sandwiches which' they ate and ingest- minutes to the gentleman from Consome things we can do. ed the radioactive dust which covered necticut (Mr. RATCHFORD). For Vietnam veterans to(Mr. RATCHFORD asked and was them. Late in the day they were T Tnnrp """""-"fr* fiifv »•"' loaded in trucks and driven many given permission to revise and extend lieve 'that 'new findings—will pr miles away to an Air Force base. While his remarks.) new oqlfcv. IJ They must believe that new evidence they were in the truck they passed ^MrL.RATCHPORD- Mr- Speaker. I will not disappear behind an ever esca- other soldiers going through decon-. ™J ,™' «t«mg support of H.R. 1961. lating burden of proof and the con- lamination. Finally, late In the eve- legislation proposed by my friend and ning when they marched to the^bar- .colleague from South Dakota to prostant call for yet more research. �January CONGRESSIONAL RECORD —HOUSE H225 vide a presumption of service conaee- tissue sarcoma cancer. It provides 1980. White I am hopeful that this and tion for certain diseases related to benefit* to the Vietnam veteran, who other studies will provide important aceat orange exposure in veterans, of within 1 year of bis departure from, answers to the agent orange question, the Vietnam era, • -•• Mr Speaker, there are an estimated SO to* 60.000 Vietnam veterans in the State of Connecticut alone. The experiences of many of those veterans, in. my own district, and throughout the State have been a source of concern for many years. A statewide investiga- tion into the problem, mandated by Connecticut's Legislature in 1982, has already begun to bear fruit in data which cannot be ignored. Although H.R. 1961 is a good beginning. I believe it will need to be broadened, and that analysis of the growing national data will support it. In addition to liver and skin disorders, in Connecticut birth defects among exposed veterans' children are alarmingly frequent, and yet this bQl unfortunately does not include them among the compensable diseases. Several veterans in my own district, who were crew members for Operation Ranchhand, the agent orange spraying missions, have had children with severe multiple birth defects. These tragedies have occurred in many families with no previous history of birth defects on either side. The Individual horror stories of chronic maladies among veterans exposed to agent orange, and severe birth defects among their children, are forming a pattern typical of finding across the country. They may" very well represent only the tip of the Iceberg. The Government has not been fulfilling its obligations to Its citizens in Connecticut or the rest of the country. It Is time for Congress to step in and fill the gaps, and H.R. 1961 is a good beginning. Veterans are asking themK»IVPS> If t.hi> nroommonf <« nff»Hn» s'. if the Government is offering presumptive treatment, why not presumptive compensation? And if the citizens of Time Beach. Mo., were compensated, citizens exposed to dioxin at' 120th the level in agent orange, why not the citizens who served in Vietnam? Let the studies continue, by all means, and I regret that the bill as reported does not provide for a special advisory committee to analyze the evidence. But let us not quibble. Dioxin is a killer and a crippler, and compensation is needed now. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, which takes a thoughtful and balanced approach to a very difficult problem. • Mr. UDALL. Mr. Speaker, r rise today In support of the bill. BLR. 1961, Agent Orange and Atomic Veterans Relief Act. This legislation is a first step toward acknowledging the suffering of many of our Vietnam veterans. Specifically, it will provide relief for those individuals who served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam era and were exposed to the herbicide, agent orange. . The bill provides benefit* to Vietnam veterans and/or their survivors, who within 20 years of their departure from Vietnam, must show to have soft- Vietnam, is shown to have either pr»~ phyria cutanea tarda (PCX. a liver condition} or chloracne (a skin conditionX • . The bill also provides the same disability relief to veterans who particlpated in the testing of nuclear devices or in the occupation of Hiroshima or there arc some veterans who cannot wait that long for our help. H.R. 1961 will provide interim disability eompensation to veterans with certain specifled illnesses which may have been caused by agent orange exposure. These disability payments will be valid until completion of the CDC study, at Nagasaki; if within 20 years from time which time Congress will have an opof participation they suffer from portunity to review the findings to decancer of the thyroid, leukemia, or termine if further action is needed. polycythemia vera (a bone marrow disWhile questions still remain about ease) . the effects of exposure to low-level raThe Government's position on expo- diation, some evidence has emerged sure to agent orange or the participa- which links such exposure to certain tion in the testing of nuclear devices diseases. HJi. 1961 would compensate, has frankly been dispiriting, A great veterans who contracted these Illmany injustices have been inflicted on nesses after exposure to radiation our Vietnam veterans, high unemploy- during their time of service. As with ment, inadequate training programs, the agent orange program, these beneand unfilled promises of rehabilitation fits are temporary pending the results and carrer counseling. • of additional studies. It is tune for us to fulfill our obligatoday tions to those who served our country a The legislation before us highly takes balanced approach to a in the Vietnam war. This legislation plex and controversial issue. It comcomrecognizes the long-range effects of pensates a carefully defined group of exposure to agent orange or nuclear veterans who have contracted the disradiation and allows this small group eases considered most likely to result of .veterans to receive service-connect- from exposure to agent orange ror ed disability treatment and benefits. radiation. The These veterans were willing to risk atomic provision statingbill includes a sunset that the their lives in Vietnam because they pensation provided is temporary, comconcared; we the Congress should be will- tingent on the final outcome of studies Ing to take the necessary actions to on these situations. This legislation allow for the treatment of their Ill- provides a long overdue remedy for nesses without requiring them to fight America's veterans and takes an imfor many years in the courts. I urge my colleagues to give this leg- portant step toward insuring that oar fulfills its promise to islation favorable support and pas- Government served their country, as. those who sage.* . of • Mr. PATTERSON. Mr. Speaker, I stated in the motto carethe Veterans' Administration: "To £V«I .JS to, HI. for him who rise in support of H.R. 1961. the Agent S^^JL , ° 1 rw.n,» ...* »»„.«;„ ir^^—n. Relief' Orange and Atomic Veterans D„!!„*- snail nave borne tne Battle and lor rus Act. This legislation addresses serious widow, and his orphan."* problems that began for some veterans • Mr. BONER of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker. I rise in support of the Agent nearly 40 years ago. HJI. 1961 provides assistance to vet- Orange and Atomic Veterans Relief erans who served their country, con- Act This bill addresses a problem that tracted illnesses which may be servicerelated and have not received disabil- many veterans now face as a result of ity compensation. After years of wait- their service either in South Vietnam ing for help, these veterans were told or the Southwest United States and that they should continue to wait, pos- the South Pacific, Prom 1961 until 1971 the herbicide sibly unto the end of this decade, before their eligibility for disability agent orange was used in South Vietcompensation would be determined. nam to eliminate Jungle growth. Agent This is too great a burden to place on orange contains one of the most veterans suffering from disabling ail- highly toxic substances known to man—dioxin. The medical community ments. This measure provides much needed is unable to come to terms on how relief for two very specific groups of dangerous dioxin is to the health, or veterans—those who were exposed to to what extent exposure results hi agent orange in Southeast Asia, and long-term health problems. There Is those who were exposed to atomic ra- considerable evidence, however, that diation, either during the occupation dioxin does increase the likelihood of of Japan after the Hiroshima and three types of disease: Soft tissue sarNagasaki bombings, or during atmos- coma, a form of cancer; PCT, a liver pheric testing of nuclear devices be- condition; and a skin condition known as chloracne. tween 1945 and 1963. Numerous scientific studies are curDuring the years of 1945 through rently underway related to the effects 1963 the United States exploded apof exposure to agent 'orange. The proximately 235 nuclear devices in the Center for Disease Control is current- atmosphere in the Southwest Untied ly conducting an extensive study with States and the Pacific Ocean. The Deresults expected between 1987 and partment of Defense estimates that �January 30,1984 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOOSB 220,000 military personnel participatThis bin provide* that retroactive to* aary before ' additional agent orange ed in those tests. Additionally, other October 1.1983, a temporary disability claims can be approved. ' ~ Mr. Speaker, I know as a cosponsor personnel were exposed to radiation /or death) allowance would be payable while participating In the occupation to veterans who served In Southeast of this bill that It has been carefully of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. ~ Many Asia during the Vietnam era and who examined by veterans and veterans studies indicate that those participat- later suffer from one' of three condi- groups throughout our Nation. The ing in the tests have a higher than ex- tions—soft-tissue sarcoma, porphyria bill Is supported by such veteran orgapected rate of leukemia, as well as a cutanea tarda, or chloracne. The soft- nizations as the Vietnam Veterans of bone marrow disease. tissue sarcoma must be shown to exist America, the American Legion, and Mr. Speaker, in both of these in- within 20 yean from date of departure the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Many stances the scientific and medical com- from Southeast Asia while the other of the veterans I represent from Bucks munities cannot decide if dioxin or ra- two conditions must be shown to exist County and eastern Montgomery diation has led to the suffering that within 1 year from date of departure. County In Pennsylvania have immany of our veterans now experience. The bill also provides that retroac- pressed upon me the importance of Several studies have been conducted tive to October 1, 1983, a temporary this bill. and several more are to be completed disability (or death) allowance would Vietnam and atomic veterans' loyal by 1987 and 1980. be payable to veterans who participat- service to America was without quesI do not feel that the veterans ed in the testing of nuclear devices or tion a display of courage, strength, should wait any longer to receive the who participated in the occupation of and devotion. As elected representabenefits that they so rightly deserve. Hiroshima or Nagasaki Immediately tives, we have an obligation to defend 'We have waited and researched long after World War II and, within 20 the interests of veterans who have alenough, it is time we compensate these years from time of participation, ready made great sacrifices in serving special Americans and their survivors suffer from cancer of the thyroid, leu-' and protecting our country and I enin some way. kemia, or polycythemia vera. courage my colleagues to support H.R. I commend Mr. DASCHLE for introUnder the bill, these benefits would ducing this bill, and especially the be terminated I year after the Veter- • Mr. CORRADA. Mr. Speaker, I rise chairman of the committee, my friend, ans' Administration submits to Con- in strong support of H.R. 1961, the SONNY MONTGOMERY, for his work on gress a study now being prepared by Agent Orange and Atomic Veterans this legislation in addressing this prob- the Centers for Disease Control on the Relief Act which establishes a prelem and bringing it to the attention of effect of agent orange .exposure on sumption of service-connection for certhe American people.* • veterans' health. This study is expect- tain diseases present in Vietnam veter• Mr. KOSTMAYER. Mr. Speaker. I ed to be-completed between 1987 and' ans and veterans who participated in rise in support of H.R. 1961, the Agent 1989. Public Law 98-160, which was the detonation of an atomic bomb or Orange and Atomic Veterans Relief signed into law on November 21, 1983, device or in the occupation of HiroshiAct. I am proud to be a cosponsor of already requires the Administrator of ma or Nagasaki, that may be attributthis important legislation. Veterans' Affairs to consider the feasi- able to the exposure to agent orange Recognition of the medical needs of bility of conducting an epidemiological or ionizing radiation. I believe that It Is only fitting and those veterans who served our country study on the effects of low-level ionizin Southeast Asia during the Vietnam ing radiation on veterans who partici- just to compensate veterans who era and who participated in the test- pated in the testing of nuclear devices suffer certain diseases which have ing of nuclear devices between 1945 or who were in the occupation forces been reasonably linked to the veterans and 1963 is long overdue. at Hiroshima and Nagasaki immediate- exposure to agent orange arftJ atomic I believe that we, as Members of ly after World War II. It is estimated radiation during their time in military Congress, must respond to the appre- that this study. If undertaken, would service. While these illnesses stand ofhension and concern among Vietnam be completed before the agent orange ficially unrecognized due to the lack of conclusive scientific evidence of their veterans and their families about the study. possible long-term health effects that I am concerned, as are others, Mr. service-connection, they are real, they may have been caused by exposure to Speaker, about the fact that the bene- are painful, they have been reasonably agent orange while serving in South- fits authorization in this bill termi- established as service-incurred diseases east Asia. In addition, this bill address- nates 1 year after the agent orange and therefore, during the absence of es the health concerns of atomic veter- study is completed. Therefore, it will scientific proof to the contrary, the ans and their families who were ex- be important for the Veterans' Affairs ailing veteran should be compensated. posed to low-level ionizing radiation. The Federal Government has the reCommittee and the Congress to careThe herbicide agent orange was used fully follow the progress of the studies sponsibility to compensate our soldiers extensively in Vietnam over a 10-year to insure their objectivity and accura- for all service-connected disabilities period to reduce or eliminate Jungle cy, and then to be prepared to pass the and whenever we are In doubt as to foliage. Agent orange contains dioxin. appropriate legislation expeditiously the service-connection of a disease, the benefit of the doubt should rest with one of the most toxic substances upon learning of the findings. known to science. At this time, we do This legislation is an Important first the veteran; they have rightfully not know all the long-term effects of step regarding compensation for expo- earned this deference. I urge my colleagues to vote for the dioxin on humans, nor do we know sure to agent orange and low-level rahow much exposure can be expected diation. However, this bill Is not a passage of this legislation which to harm human health. However, cure-all and questions relating to this places the responsibility for theagent orange has been linked to at compensation for veterans will contin- health damaging results the use of least three types of disease: a form of ue after the bill is passed. I join sever- herbicides and ionizing radiation yieldcancer known as soft-tissue sarcoma, a al of my colleagues on the Veterans' ed where it belongs.* • • liver condition known as porphyria cu- Affairs Committee in urging the cre- • Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I support tanea tarda or PCX, and a skin condi- ation of an independent advisory com- the passage of this legislation. It is betion known as chloracne. mittee to objectively analyze all new coming increasingly clear that the It is estimated that 220,000 military and existing scientific evidence per- costs of the Vietnam war will be even personnel may have'been exposed to taining to dioxin exposure. I believe more horrendous than we realized— radiation effects between 1945 and this would Insure that viewpoints con- but they are costs which all of society 1963. Studies have shown that those trary -to VA positions receive fair and must share, not just those who served persons involved In the nuclear testing expeditious consideration. In addition, their country by going to Vietnam. have a higher than expected rate of I support an open, public procedure by • The fuH magnitude of the health leukemia and bone marrow disease which the VA can clarify how much disaster created by agent orange is still and what kind of proof Is still necea- unfolding. One of my constituents was known as polycythemia vera. " ' H226 .**.- �January 36, 1984 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD— HOUSE H227 in a supply company (the 570th) in gram created by ft new title VI which ANNUAL REPORT OF PIPELINE Vietnam in 1967 and 1968, which was allows libraries to apply directly to the SAFETY FOR CALENDAR YEAR 1082-MESSAOE FROM THE involved in fighting a chemical fire in Secretary of Education for grants to which a huge cache of agent orange be used in the coordination of literacy PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED was burned. He has come down with a programs. STATES very serious skin and nerve (and possl- The administration has expressed its The SPEAKER pro tempore laid bly other) disorders. In .contacting opposition to this bill. Libraries, It before the House the following mesother members of his unit, he has argues, are the responsibility of State sage from the President of the United found four out of the approximately and local governments and, in spite of States; which was read, and together 200 men of the unit to be seriously ill. the acknowledged success of LSCA with the accompanying papers, withHe had not found any of his col- programs over the past 25 years, all out objection, referred to the Commitleagues who are fully welL-1 have Federal support should be cut. LSCA, tee on Energy and Commerce and the asked the VA to find the men of this however, requires that States and Committee on Public Works and unit and poll them as to their health, communities must match the Federal to determine whether this is a cohort contribution to libraries. In no case Transportation. see proceedings of the , (For message, which should be especially watched can the Federal share of programs on Senate of today. Monday. January 30. titles I and II be more than 66 percent. over the years. I suspect that this bill will be the •Still, Federal funds have proven to be 1084.) first of several we will need over the a tremendous stimulus to State and years to be fair to the men and the local governments. Often, States over LIBRARY SERVICES AND CONfamilies of those who served in Viet- match Federal funds. STRUCTION ACT AMENDMENTS In spite of a record of opposition to nam. OF 1083 ~ To reject this bill would be the most libraries on the part of the administraThe serious breach of faith. tion, Congress has consistently given ant to SPEAKER pro tempore. PursuI urge its passage.* library programs strong bipartisan XXIII. House Resolution 307 and rule the Chair declares the • Mr. SIMON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support. In fiscal years 1083 and 1084, in the Committee of the Whole House House support of H.R. 2878, the Library the administration recommended zero on the State of the Union for the conServices and Construction Act amend- funding for library programs. None- sideration of the bill, H.R. 2878. ments of 1083. Since the Federal Gov- theless, Congress has kept authorizaIN THE COMMITTEE Of THE WHOLE ernment began to assist bur Nation's tion levels above $80 million. Given Accordingly, the House resolved libraries in 1057, some 17 million the'tremendous cost increases that liAmericans have received library serv- braries have faced in recent years, it is itself Into the. Committee of the ices for the first time. Another 00 mil- time we reconfirm our commitment Whole House, on the State of the lion individuals have benefitted from and put authorization levels for librar- Union for the consideration of the^bill (H.R. 2878) to amend and extend the improved services. During the last ies back in step with their needs. Congress, the Subcommittee on Post- The average cost of a periodical in Library Services and Construction Act. secondary Education conducted exten- I960 was $0.31. Today it is $50.23. The with Mr. FAZIO in the chair. The Clerk read the title of the bill. sive oversight hearings • around the average book in 1060 was priced at The CHAIRMAN. Pursuant to the country to prepare for reauthorlzation $10.37. Today the price tag is over $25. of the act. We learned that. In general, If our Nation's libraries are to meet rule, the first reading of the bill is disLSCA programs were very highly re- the growing challenge of the new era pensed with. Under the rule, the gentleman from garded and valued. Certain suggestions of information, if they are to attain were made, however, to Improve li- their full potential as social services to Kentucky (Mr. PERKINS) will be recogbrary services under the act. Numer- all American citizens, we cannot back nized for 30 minutes and the gentleous witnesses pointed out, for exam- down now. We must continue our his- man from Missouri (Mr. COLEMAN) will ple, that: tory of support. I urge you to vote yes be recognized for 30 minutes. The CJiair recognizes the gentleman The focus of LSCA needed to be on this bill.* changed from providing geographic Mr. HAMMERSCHMIDT. Mr. from Kentucky (Mr. PERKIRS). Mr. PERKINS. Mr. Chairman, I access to a strong emphasis on provid- Speaker. I yield back the balance of yield myself 6 minutes. ing access to services for a wide range my time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of of populations; Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker. Libraries should be considered com- I rise in strong support of this bill and H.R. 2878, the authorization for the Library Services and Construction Act munity information centers, not just yield back the balance of my time. repositories for books; The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Amendments of 1083. This important There are no provisions for library MOARXET). The question is on the piece of legislation provides funding services for American Indian tribes; motion offered by the gentleman from through fiscal year 1088 to continue Increased emphasis is needed on in- Mississippi (Mr. MONTGOMERY) that services and to provide access to these terlibrary cooperation; and the House suspend the rules and pass services for unserved and underserved Funding is desperately needed for the bill. H.R. 1061, as amended. population groups. title II construction programs. The question was taken; and (two-1 Since 1056, this program has pro- H.R. 2878 addresses these needs. It thirds having voted in favor thereof) vided 17 million, Americans with liexpands the definition of libraries to the rules were suspended and the bllL'jj brary services for the first time, and reflect their new role as Information as amended, was passed. I/ another 00 million Americans have recenters; it increases the authorization The title of the bill was amended so ceived improved" and additional servfor library construction and redefines as to read: "A bill to amend title 38, ices through the provisions of this legpermissible projects to Include handi- United States Code, to provide disabil- islation. Even though we are close to capped access and energy conservation ity and death allowances to veterans our original goal of providing geoprojects; and it encourages greater in- and the survivors of veterans who graphic access to libraries for all terlibrary cooperation. One new pro- *erved in Southeast Asia during the Americans (06 percent of the Nation gram in title IV will permit Indian Vietnam era anq suffer f com diseases now has access to library services), we tribes to receive funding directly from that PlflV bp pfl.rifyufrfrhlp 1 tn know there are still millions of Amerithe Secretary of Education for the to ~the~ herbicide fin""" *"» cans who need to have these services purposes of developing library serv- Orange1 ana 10 veterans and the survi- continued and expanded if we are to ices. Title V creates a second new pro- «5rs of veterans who participated in provide the kinds of informational gram which provides for discretionary atomic tests or the occupation of Hiro- services and special programs that are grants directly to libraries for the pur- shima and Nagasaki and suffer from needed for today's world. pose of purchasing foreign language diseases that may be attributable to This bill has attempted to meet that materials. Finally, there is a new pro- Ionizing radiation." .' challenge by focusing on underserved � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Alvin L. Young Collection on Agent Orange Description An account of the resource <p style="margin-top: -1em; line-height: 1.2em;">The Alvin L. Young Collection on Agent Orange comprises 120 linear feet and spans the late 1800s to 2005; however, the bulk of the coverage is from the 1960s to the 1980s and there are many undated items. The collection was donated to Special Collections of the National Agricultural Library in 1985 by Dr. Alvin L. Young (1942- ). Dr. Young developed the collection as he conducted extensive research on the military defoliant Agent Orange. The collection is in good condition and includes letters, memoranda, books, reports, press releases, journal and newspaper clippings, field logs and notebooks, newsletters, maps, booklets and pamphlets, photographs, memorabilia, and audiotapes of an interview with Dr. Young.</p> <p>For more about this collection, <a href="/exhibits/speccoll/exhibits/show/alvin-l--young-collection-on-a">view the Agent Orange Exhibit.</a></p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Box The box containing the original item. 199 Folder The folder containing the original item. 5616 Series The series number of the original item. Series VIII Subseries II Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Brandt, Edward N., Jr. Title A name given to the resource Memorandum from Edward N. Brandt to Members, Cabinet Council Agent Orange Working Group, with subject: Special Meeting of the Agent Orange Working Group - Australian Visitors, dated February 10, 1984 ao_seriesVIII Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Alvin L. Young Collection on Agent Orange Description An account of the resource <p style="margin-top: -1em; line-height: 1.2em;">The Alvin L. Young Collection on Agent Orange comprises 120 linear feet and spans the late 1800s to 2005; however, the bulk of the coverage is from the 1960s to the 1980s and there are many undated items. The collection was donated to Special Collections of the National Agricultural Library in 1985 by Dr. Alvin L. Young (1942- ). Dr. Young developed the collection as he conducted extensive research on the military defoliant Agent Orange. The collection is in good condition and includes letters, memoranda, books, reports, press releases, journal and newspaper clippings, field logs and notebooks, newsletters, maps, booklets and pamphlets, photographs, memorabilia, and audiotapes of an interview with Dr. Young.</p> <p>For more about this collection, <a href="/exhibits/speccoll/exhibits/show/alvin-l--young-collection-on-a">view the Agent Orange Exhibit.</a></p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Box The box containing the original item. 199 Folder The folder containing the original item. 5610 Series The series number of the original item. Series VIII Subseries II Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Brandt, Edward N., Jr. Title A name given to the resource Letter to Murphy A. Chesney from Edward N. Brandt, Jr., January 5, 1984 ao_seriesVIII https://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/speccoll/files/original/2e2936ea65e6938453275da29def31c4.pdf 0a53c595fe4e95df76eef1b8eaf2b106 PDF Text Text Item D Number °5426 Author D NotgcannBfl- Brandt, Edward N., Jr. Corporate Author Report/Article Title Statement by Edward N. Brandt, Jr., M. D., Assistant Secretary for Health, Department of Health and Human Services, before the Subcommittee on Natural Resources, Agriculture Research, and Environment, Committee on Science and Technology, House of Representatives, July 28, 1983 Journal/Book Title Year 1983 Month/Day Color Number of Images D ° Descrlpton Notes Friday, March 08, 2002 Page 5426 of 5427 �DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES Public Health Service Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health Washington DC 20201 FOR RELEASE ONLY UPON DELIVERY STATEMENT BY EDWARD N. BRANDT, JR., M.D. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR HEALTH DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES BEFORE THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, AGRICULTURE RESEARCH, AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES JULY 28, 1983 �I am Dr. Edward N. Brandt, Or, Assistant Secretary for Health, Public Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services. I am accompanied by Dr. Vernon N. Houk, Director, Center for Environmental Health, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia; Dr. Philip J. Landrigan, Director, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations, and Field Studies, CDC/NIOSH, Cincinnati, Ohio; and Dr. Marilyn Fingerhut, CDC/NIOSH, Cincinnati, Ohio. It is important to recognize that there are 75 related compounds generally referred to as dioxin. Our testimony today relates specifically to the toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), the most toxic. Exposure to dioxin is a very important public health problem, and the Public Health Service is doing a considerable amount of work relating to the known and potential health effects of exposure to this compound. Most of the information on health effects comes from extensive animal studies and from some studies of workers inadvertently exposed to dioxin-containing products. It is generally agreed that dioxin can cause chloracne. In addition, porphyria cutanea tarda, an acquired form of porphyria characterized by chronic skin lesions and other symptoms, has been observed in some instances after dioxin exposure. Industrial workers inadvertently exposed to dioxin have complained of weight loss, easy fatigability, aching muscles, insomnia, irritability, and loss of libido but these complaints are very difficult to evaluate. Also, after such exposure, abnormal liver function �-2- tests have been reported In association with tender liver and liver enlargement. Neurological changes in sensory function have been observed. There is an increasing body of evidence that there may be an association in workers between exposure to products containing dioxin and soft tissue sarcomas; however, further studies are necessary before we can determine whether or not this association is causal. Results thus far do not establish a cause and effect relationship. A great deal of research on the health effects of dioxin is under way in the Public Health Service. The National Institutes of Health's National Cancer Institute (NCI)'s studies have indicated that although dioxin was carcinogenic by oral administration, when applied to the skins of mice it was not carcinogenic for male mice; however, it was for female mice. Currently, NCI is conducting epidemiological studies in groups of workers who were exposed to various herbicides which may have been contaminated with dioxin. These studies are investigating the incidence of soft tissue sarcoma in farmers and others who have used herbicides. At present, NCI maintains reference samples of dioxins. The Institute also funds two grants investigating the effects of dioxins on hepatic microsomal enzymes, and a grant studying the relationship between cancer incidence and phenoxy herbicide exposure in 13 counties of western Washington State. NCI also supports an intramural study concerning the suspected role of herbicides in causing soft tissue sarcomas. �-3- NIH's National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) has evaluated the toxicity of dioxin in animals using conventional pharmacological and toxicological procedures. Because of its biological potency, dioxin also has been employed extensively as a model toxin in a variety of basic research toxicologic studies including mutagenesis, carcinogenesis and teratogenesis studies. NIEHS has learned that, in general, dioxin produces a characteristic pattern of short term toxic effects that involves skin, liver, and the immune system in animals. In addition, when administered to pregnant animals, dioxin can cause fetal toxicity and fetal death. However, it does not appear that exposure to dioxin produces adverse genetic effects, alters fertility in male rodents, or increases the incidence of malformed offspring sired by treated males. Several independent studies in experimental animals also have revealed that dioxin is carcinogenic. In addition, two separate laboratory research techniques have shown that dioxin is a potent promoter of chemically induced cancer. The biological potency of this chemical has intrigued scientists and continues to stimulate NIEHS research into the mechanism by which it produces its effect(s). While there are human data that document the immediate or short term effects of dioxin exposure, the long term sequelae are not as well understood. One study is being supported by NIEHS to enhance the sample size associated with industrial exposure—the International Dioxin Registry being coordinated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, of the World Health Organization, with funding provided by NIEHS. �-4- Recent events In Missouri, Michigan, and New Jersey demonstrate that there are dioxin contaminated environments to which the public may be exposed and that the number of contaminated sites being detected is increasing. It has been observed that dioxin has a natural tendency to bind to components of soil. Some scientists speculate that in such an instance the toxicity potential would be diminished. If dioxin bioavailability is appreciably diminished due to binding in soil, it may have practical utility fn assessing risk associated with levels in the environment. A series of experiments currently is in progress at NIEHS to study dioxin bioavailability from soil. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) involvement in the dioxin issue stems from concern over contamination of certain species of fish in the Great Lakes area. In 1981, after a thorough review of all the available human epidemiology data and animal toxicology data, FDA provided a public health advisory to the State of Michigan and to other Great Lakes states. This advisory stated that based on the animal data from several studies and data on human consumption of fish, FDA would not consider fish with residues of 25 parts per trillion (ppt) or less to pose a human health hazard. Fish which averaged 25-50ppt should not be eaten more than twice a month by individuals who usually eat locally caught fish. Fish containing more than 50 ppt should not be consumed. Should any new scientific evidence become available to change these decisions the agency is fully prepared to do so. �-5- The Centers for Disease Control, as you know, is conducting a large-scale Agent Orange epidemiology study mandated by Public Law 96-151. This study involves three separate but related investigations: one to evaluate the possible long term health effects of exposure of U.S. ground forces to Agent Orange; a second to make an assessment of the possible health effects of service in Vietnam, a third to assess the potential association between service in Vietnam and soft tissue sarcoma and lymphoma. Each of the first two studies will include a mortality assessment to determine which veterans may have died since being discharged and the causes of their deaths; a health interview; and a comprehensive medical examination and laboratory assessment. The CDC Birth Defects Study may be able to determine whether there is an association between birth defects in children and service of their fathers in Vietnam where they may have been exposed to Agent Orange. In response to dioxin environmental contamination incidents, such as those in Missouri, Michigan, and New Jersey, CDC has issued health advisories and is working with State and local health departments to provide studies of the affected population to help determine what, if any, human health effects have occured as a result of exposure to dioxin. CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has conducted studies of the health effects of dioxin on workers involved in the manufacture of products contaminated by the compound. In response to your request, Dr. Landrigan will focus on the NIOSH work in this area. We will then be happy to respond to any questions you may have. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Alvin L. Young Collection on Agent Orange Description An account of the resource <p style="margin-top: -1em; line-height: 1.2em;">The Alvin L. Young Collection on Agent Orange comprises 120 linear feet and spans the late 1800s to 2005; however, the bulk of the coverage is from the 1960s to the 1980s and there are many undated items. The collection was donated to Special Collections of the National Agricultural Library in 1985 by Dr. Alvin L. Young (1942- ). Dr. Young developed the collection as he conducted extensive research on the military defoliant Agent Orange. The collection is in good condition and includes letters, memoranda, books, reports, press releases, journal and newspaper clippings, field logs and notebooks, newsletters, maps, booklets and pamphlets, photographs, memorabilia, and audiotapes of an interview with Dr. Young.</p> <p>For more about this collection, <a href="/exhibits/speccoll/exhibits/show/alvin-l--young-collection-on-a">view the Agent Orange Exhibit.</a></p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Box The box containing the original item. 192 Folder The folder containing the original item. 5426 Series The series number of the original item. Series VIII Subseries I Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Brandt, Edward N., Jr. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 28 1983 Title A name given to the resource Statement by Edward N. Brandt, Jr., M. D., Assistant Secretary for Health, Department of Health and Human Services, before the Subcommittee on Natural Resources, Agriculture Research, and Environment, Committee on Science and Technology, House of Represen ao_seriesVIII