Luzerne Times

Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne) announced his appointment to the Pennsylvania Task Force on Agent Orange and Other Toxins in the House of Representatives by Republican Leader Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster). The task force was established earlier this year following the unanimous adoption of a bipartisan House resolution, which Watro co-sponsored.

The task force will include members from military organizations as well as representatives from both the House and Senate. Its primary objective is to study and provide recommendations on how to effectively communicate with Pennsylvania veterans affected by Agent Orange, helping them access eligible benefits and treatment options.

“I would like to thank Leader Cutler for this appointment to serve on a task force that is going to have a positive impact on the lives of veterans exposed to Agent Orange and other dangerous chemicals during their service to the nation in Vietnam,” said Watro. “This issue is a personal one for me, as I have an uncle who is one of those veterans. He is now blind and struggles with his daily activities. We need to do all we can to help him and his fellow veterans whose lives have been forever changed by Agent Orange.”

From 1962-1971, the U.S. military used a blend of herbicides known as Agent Orange during the Vietnam War to remove foliage providing cover for enemies. The herbicide was banned after evidence emerged showing its harmful and sometimes deadly effects. Those exposed are at risk of developing cancers, neurological and psychological conditions, as well as other long-term effects on skin and heart health.

Watro is a U.S. Army veteran and serves on the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee.

Representative Dane Watro

116th Legislative District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Andy Briggs

717-260-6474

abriggs@pahousegop.com

RepWatro.com / Facebook.com/RepWatro