What the New Bill Proposes for Iran Veterans

In November 2026, Senator Tammy Duckworth introduced a bill designed to expand VA benefits and healthcare for veterans exposed to toxic substances during service in or near Iran. The bill aims to create a presumption of service connection for specific conditions linked to toxic exposure, similar to the PACT Act’s protections for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. If passed, this legislation would simplify the VA claims process for affected veterans and their families.

The bill’s text is not yet law, but it signals a major policy shift. Veterans who served in Iran between 1980 and the present should pay close attention, as the bill could impact eligibility for disability compensation, healthcare, and survivor benefits.

How Toxic Exposure Claims Work Today

Currently, veterans exposed to toxins—such as burn pits, chemicals, or environmental hazards—must prove a direct link between their service and their medical condition. This often requires medical evidence, service records, and expert opinions. The PACT Act (P.L. 117-168) created a list of presumptive conditions for certain locations, but Iran is not yet included.

If you believe your condition is related to toxic exposure in Iran, you can still file a claim using VA Form 21-526EZ. However, you must provide strong documentation. For more on current requirements, visit our VA claims hub and topic explainers.

What Would Change If the Bill Passes?

If Senator Duckworth’s bill becomes law, it would likely:

  • Add Iran to the list of locations with presumptive toxic exposure conditions
  • List specific illnesses (such as respiratory cancers or chronic bronchitis) presumed to be service-connected
  • Reduce the burden of proof for veterans—no need to prove direct causation, just service in the designated area and a qualifying diagnosis
  • Expand access to VA healthcare and disability compensation for eligible veterans and survivors

This would streamline the process and increase approval rates for claims related to Iran service. For an overview of how presumptive conditions work, see our disability ratings hub.

What Veterans Should Do Now

While the bill is not yet law, veterans who served in or near Iran should start gathering:

  • Service records showing deployment locations and dates
  • Medical records documenting current diagnoses and symptoms
  • Any documentation of toxin exposure (unit logs, buddy statements, etc.)

If you have a potential claim, consider filing now using VA Form 21-526EZ. If the law changes, you may be able to request a review or supplemental claim. Track updates on our VA claims page and consult with a VSO or accredited representative for guidance.

Key Resources and Next Steps

Stay informed by following updates in Congress and on the VA website. If the bill passes, the VA will issue new regulations—likely in Title 38 CFR Part 3—detailing eligibility and procedures. Use our VA disability rating calculator to estimate potential compensation if your claim is approved.

For more information on toxic exposure policy and filing strategies, explore our explainers index and connect with your local VSO.