10/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/08/2024 14:56
Oct 8, 2024
Following a disturbing report showing that service members are sustaining crippling traumatic brain injuries as a result of firing their own weapons, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a roundtable with veterans at VFW Post No. 9587 in Staten Island to discuss the her Blast Overpressure Safety Act, legislation to address traumatic brain injuries among service members and veterans. Service members who regularly fire heavy weapons are at increased risk of brain injury as a result of repeated exposure to explosions or blasts from their own weapons and explosives - otherwise known as blast overpressure. These brain injuries can cause depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, hallucinations, panic attacks, violent outbursts, suicidal tendencies, psychiatric disorders, dementia, and a variety of other serious health problems. At least a dozen Navy SEALs who have died by suicide over the past decade were later found to have suffered blast injuries, and many more service members have complained of health issues after blast exposure. Despite this, the Pentagon has struggled to properly investigate the impact of blast overpressure, effectively track the prevalence of blast overpressure-related injuries, or offer appropriate care to service members and veterans. Gillibrand is calling for more research and better treatment for those affected.
Gillibrand was joined by New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and local veterans.
"After repeatedly being exposed to blasts from their own weapons during both training and combat, our service members are sustaining severe and crippling brain trauma," said Senator Gillibrand. "This bill will require the DoD to investigate the prevalence and causes of these brain injuries; to track each service member's exposure to blasts; and to help service members access care. This is a critical bill and I look forward to getting it passed in the NDAA."
"I want to thank Senator Gillibrand for joining us here on Staten Island for this veteran's roundtable," said State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. "It's always an honor to meet with our veterans and discuss these important issues affecting them and their families. I look forward to continuing to work alongside my federal, state, and local colleagues to advance policies that support our veterans."
Specifically, the Blast Overpressure Safety Act would: