To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption that certain veterans were exposed to radiation and other toxins at the Nevada Test and Training Range for purposes of the treatment of certain disabilities under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

This bill would make it easier for certain veterans who worked at the Nevada Test and Training Range to get VA care and benefits. It presumes they were exposed to radiation and other toxins if they served there between January 1, 1972 and January 1, 2005, including those who worked on building, running, or maintaining military installations at covered sites on the range. It specifically includes Indian Springs Auxiliary Airfield, and excludes Nellis Air Force Base and Creech Air Force Base. It also adds that, for these covered veterans, lipomas and tumor-related conditions are presumed to be connected to their service, which can speed up access to care and compensation.

Key points:

• Who is affected: Veterans who served at covered locations in the Nevada Test and Training Range (including Indian Springs Auxiliary Airfield, not including Nellis AFB or Creech AFB) between 1972 and 2004.
• What changes: Presumes exposure to radiation and toxins at those locations and treats certain on-site work as “radiation-risk activities”; adds a presumption of service connection for lipomas and tumor-related conditions for these veterans.
• Why it matters: Presumptions reduce the burden of proof, helping affected veterans qualify more quickly for VA health care and disability benefits.