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US Sen. Kristen Gillibrand's PACT Act officially passed by the Senate

U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand speaks from behind a podium.
Gage Skidmore
/
WXXI
U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand speaks from behind a podium.

U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said the passage of the PACT Act to help veterans suffering from burn pit-related illnesses was the result of six days of round-the-clock advocacy.

Gillibrand introduced the bill in September 2020, and a strong coalition of veterans service organizations and even comedian Jon Stewart have long been advocates.

The bill will provide health coverage to veterans who are suffering the toxic effects of trash that was burned and caused lung-related illnesses and other health issues.