Jay Rockefeller: “I introduce, on behalf of myself and Senator Murray, legislation that would aid the children born with birth defects to…”

“I introduce, on behalf of myself and Senator Murray, legislation that would aid the children born with birth defects to female Vietnam veterans. This legislation, the Children of Female Vietnam Veterans' Benefits Act of 2000, is long overdue. As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the end of the war, it is a particularly appropriate time for passage of this important legislation. Women played a critical role in Vietnam. As nurses, they provided lifesaving care to the wounded and comfort to the dying. Their compassion and selflessness is legendary. Others served in countless other ways, as clerks, mapmakers, photographers, air traffic controllers, Red Cross and USO workers, and other volunteer roles. Their support was crucial to the war effort. Last year, the VA completed study on women Vietnam veterans which concluded that there was a 'statistically significant increase in birth defects' in their children. VA generally does not have the legal authority to provide health care and compensation to the children of veterans, except in the case of spina bifida.”