Luzerne Times

Rep. Dane Watro of Luzerne has been appointed to the Pennsylvania Task Force on Agent Orange and Other Toxins by Republican Leader Bryan Cutler from Lancaster. The task force was established following a unanimous bipartisan House resolution, which Watro co-sponsored.

The task force includes members from military organizations and the House and Senate. Its goal 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.

Watro expressed gratitude for his appointment: "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," he said. He added that the issue holds personal significance as his uncle, who served in Vietnam, is now blind due to exposure. "We need to do all we can to help him and his fellow veterans whose lives have been forever changed by Agent Orange."

Agent Orange was used by the U.S. military from 1962-1971 during the Vietnam War as a defoliant. It was banned after evidence showed it caused harmful health effects, including cancer and neurological conditions.

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

For further information, contact Andy Briggs at 717-260-6474 or abriggs@pahousegop.com.