Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) and Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20) have introduced the Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith Glioblastoma Parity Act—a bipartisan bill designed to ensure that Vietnam War veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange can access critical benefits for glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. This bill, H.R. 3752, amends the PACT Act to include glioblastoma as a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange.
The bill is named in honor of Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith, a Vietnam veteran who tragically died of glioblastoma in 2021. Despite being exposed to Agent Orange during his service, Smith’s condition was not recognized under the PACT Act, leaving him and his family without the benefits he deserved. His widow, Linda Smith, who is now advocating for the bill, was instrumental in bringing attention to the issue and pushing for change.
A Tribute to a Fallen Hero
Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith served with the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War, where he was exposed to Agent Orange while carrying out reconnaissance missions. Following his death from glioblastoma, Linda Smith researched and compiled evidence to support her husband’s case, including Army records and handwritten letters that documented his service. Despite her efforts, Smith was denied critical benefits due to the lack of recognition of glioblastoma as a presumptive condition under the PACT Act.
“This was Keith’s wish — to help other Vietnam veterans affected by Agent Orange,” Linda said in a statement. “Adding glioblastoma to the list of presumptive conditions as part of the PACT Act would help fulfill that wish.”
Linda’s advocacy efforts included reaching out to U.S. Senators, U.S. Representatives, and other political leaders. Her work led to widespread support for a change in the law, culminating in the introduction of the Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith Glioblastoma Parity Act.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith Glioblastoma Parity Act aims to address the issue of veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and later developed glioblastoma, which had not been recognized as a presumptive condition. The bill includes several important provisions:
- Addition of Glioblastoma to Presumptive Conditions: The bill amends Section 1116(a)(2) of Title 38, United States Code, adding glioblastoma multiforme to the list of conditions that are presumptively linked to Agent Orange exposure.
- Improved Access to Benefits: Veterans who served in Vietnam during the specified time frame (1961-1971) and were exposed to Agent Orange will now be able to file claims for glioblastoma-related benefits, ensuring they receive the compensation and care they deserve.
The bill’s introduction is a direct result of Linda Smith’s efforts to raise awareness of the issue and her determination to ensure that no other veteran or family suffers the same fate.
Support for Veterans
Congresswoman Ashley Hinson expressed her support for the bill, stating, “Ensuring our veterans receive the benefits they have earned remains a top priority for me. I was proud to support the PACT Act to expand access to care for those exposed to toxic substances, but more work remains. SP4 Smith served our country with pride and honor, but under the current PACT Act, he was still unable to receive the health care he deserved.”
She continued, “I’m humbled to co-lead this bipartisan effort to update the law and ensure all veterans have access to the highest quality care. Naming this bill in SP4 Smith’s honor is a deserving tribute to his life and service, and an opportunity for Iowans and all Americans to help save lives while honoring one of our own.”
A Call for Action
The Specialist Fourth Class Keith Smith Glioblastoma Parity Act has been referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and is awaiting further action. As the bill progresses, Linda Smith continues to monitor the developments closely and is encouraging others to contact their elected officials to show support for the bill.
Veterans, family members, and advocates are encouraged to reach out to their Representatives and Senators to help ensure that the bill becomes law. By passing this legislation, Congress will take an important step toward providing justice and support for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and have suffered from glioblastoma.
