#USA #Arlington #Veterans #ALS Association #Bipartisan Bill

The ALS Association Applauds New Legislation

The ALS Association has expressed strong support for a new bipartisan initiative recently introduced by Congressman Jason Crow from Colorado aimed at addressing the alarming rate at which military veterans are diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Veterans are reported to develop ALS at double the rate of the general population, and this legislation, known as the Veterans with ALS Reporting Act, seeks to explore the reasons behind this troubling statistic.

Understanding ALS Risks for Veterans

For years, the connection between military service and increased ALS risk has prompted concerns among health professionals and advocacy groups. While the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes ALS as a service-connected condition, granting 100% disability rating, many questions regarding the underlying causes remain unanswered. The Veterans with ALS Reporting Act is designed to enhance data collection and analysis about ALS within veteran communities, ultimately driving research efforts and preventive strategies.

The partnership between the ALS Association, Congressman Crow, and several veteran service organizations has been pivotal in shaping this legislation. These stakeholders have ensured that the voices of veterans and their families affected by ALS are prioritized in the efforts to find solutions.

Key Objectives of the Legislation

The Veterans with ALS Reporting Act is expected to achieve several important objectives:
1. Data Collection: Systematic gathering of critical data on the prevalence and impact of ALS among military personnel and veterans, which is vital for understanding the disease's relationship to military service.
2. Risk Mitigation: Development of strategies to reduce ALS’s onset among future service members, contributing to proactive health measures for those in uniform.
3. Improved Access to Care: Facilitation of better access to care and clinical trials for veterans already diagnosed with ALS, ensuring they receive the best available treatments.
4. Action Plan: Formulation of a clear plan to reduce the incidence of ALS among current and future veterans, representing a commitment to their long-term health.

Veterans Voice Their Support

Jessy Ybarra, a veteran with ALS and a board trustee at the ALS Association, shared his thoughts on the bill, expressing optimism for future generations. “As a veteran and a dad, I want my son to grow up knowing that his country takes care of the people who serve it. This bill gives me hope... not just for me, but for the next generation,” Ybarra stated.

Furthermore, Melanie Lendnal, Senior Vice President of Policy and Advocacy for the ALS Association, emphasized the significance of the act. “The Veterans with ALS Reporting Act is more than a bill — it's a lifeline of hope for the heroes who once fought for us and now face a fight against ALS,” she remarked, appreciating the collaborative efforts of lawmakers involved in the act.

Conclusion

The unveiling of the Veterans with ALS Reporting Act represents a significant step toward addressing an urgent public health concern that affects thousands of veterans. With this legislation, the ALS Association and its partners hope to pave the way for a better understanding of ALS among veterans and enhance the support systems in place for those grappling with this devastating disease. As Congressman Crow eloquently put it, “We must work to understand why our veterans are at greater risk.” Through this legislative measure, there is renewed hope for discovering answers and improving the lives of those who have served.

For more information about the ALS Association's initiatives, visit www.als.org.

About ALS

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, which leads to a gradual loss of muscle control. The disease is inevitably fatal, with many individuals facing substantial deterioration within five years of diagnosis. The quest for effective treatment options remains a critical need, particularly for those who have served in the military and are now facing this debilitating condition.