Oregon Public Broadcasting

Two Oregon lawmakers are working on bills designed to help Oregon soldiers exposed to dangerous chemicals during overseas duty.

Congressman Kurt Schrader's House bill deals with informing soldiers of potential harm.

Senator Ron Wyden has a separate bill designed to cut red tape. April Baer reports on the Senate version. 

Investigative reports have revealed that soldiers from Oregon and three other states were exposed to at least 7 toxic substances during their service at a water treatment plant. Some of the materials were  carcinogenic.

Soldiers in some spots recalled guarding private contractors in full hazmat suits, but received no notice that they themselves faced any environmental risk.

Wyden and two other Senators propose to shift the burden of proof.

Ron Wyden:  "The whole process of gathering evidence right now essentially puts the burden of proof on the veteran."

If this bill became law, veterans would have only to demonstrate symptoms to qualify for complete care for service-connected illnesses.

Employees and some soldiers have filed suit against the private contractor KBR, claiming negligence in the face of an obvious health risk.