Muller died a week ago after battling pancreatic cancer; She believed that her cancer was linked to her exposure to toxic burn pits while serving in Iraq

Earlier this month, Klobuchar and Senator Thom Tillis introduced the Helping Veterans Exposed to Burn Pits Act; The bill would create a center of excellence within the Department of Veterans Affairs to better understand the health effects associated with burn pits and treat veterans who become sick after exposure 

MINNEAPOLIS - U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar issued the following statement on the passing of National Guard veteran Amie Muller. Muller died a week ago after battling pancreatic cancer, and, according to a Star Tribune report, she believed that her cancer was linked to her exposure to toxic burn pits while serving in Iraq.

"Amie Muller served this country with distinction, and we owe her our gratitude. My heart goes out to her family and friends," Klobuchar said. "There are an increasing number of our brave men and women returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan citing illnesses potentially caused by burn pits exposure. I am going to keep fighting so that these veterans receive the care and support they need."

Earlier this month, Klobuchar and Senator Thom Tillis introduced the Helping Veterans Exposed to Burn Pits Act. The bill would create a center of excellence within the Department of Veterans Affairs to better understand the health effects associated with burn pits and treat veterans who become sick after exposure. Last year, Klobuchar testified before the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee to discuss the need to dedicate staff and resources to exposure diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of health conditions stemming from exposure to burn pits.

The burning of waste on military bases exposed many servicemembers to a variety of potentially harmful substances. Plastic, aerosol cans, electronic equipment, human waste, tires, and batteries were thrown into open pits, often doused with jet fuel, and set on fire. As a result, many deployed soldiers were exposed to smoke from these open-air burn pits. Health effects from exposure to chemicals found in burn pits may include cancer, neurological effects, reproductive effects, respiratory toxicity, and cardiovascular toxicity. Troops who have worked in these areas are subject to higher rates of asthma, emphysema, and rare lung disorders.

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