Maine Sen. Angus King is encouraging veterans who were exposed to toxic hazards to apply for new benefits this month.
Veterans who were exposed to hazards like burn pits and Agent Orange are eligible for expanded benefits under a recent change. King is urging any veterans who may be eligible to apply before August 9th. If a veteran applies before the deadline, they may be eligible for backdated benefits.
Almost 3,000 Maine veterans have applied so far, but King says there may be as many as 56,000 who are eligible.
"This has been a very significant problem, this is probably the largest expansion of benefits under the veterans administration for a generation," King said.
Residents can also submit their intent to file before August 9th, which allows them to apply later and still get retroactive benefits.
Applications can be done online, in person or over the phone at 207-621-6938.
