Montana Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Update

The ongoing Montana Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit has captured national attention, with thousands of affected individuals seeking justice for the harm they’ve experienced.

For Montana residents who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune during the years of contamination, this case has significant implications.

Suppose you or someone you care about has faced injuries due to exposure to Camp Lejeune’s water contamination. In that case, the committed team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is ready to lend a helping hand.

As a nationally acknowledged legal firm focused on plaintiff cases, our main objective is to ensure the justice and fair compensation you rightfully deserve.

Montana Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Camp Lejeune, a United States Marine Corps base established in 1942 in North Carolina, served as a military training facility and housed thousands of military personnel, their dependents, as well as civilian staff and contractors.

Unfortunately, during the 1960s through the 1980s, the water supply at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with toxic chemicals, posing significant health risks to those exposed.

The consequences of this contamination have been devastating, affecting hundreds of thousands of people who lived or worked at the base over the years, including Camp Lejeune victims who have experienced numerous cancers, deaths, and other diseases.

Montana residents and their family members who developed specific types of Camp Lejeune cancer and resided or were employed at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 are eligible to file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit.

These individuals can pursue compensation by submitting a claim against the federal government as the responsible party for the contamination.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Justice Act of 2022

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 is a critical piece of legislation that allows individuals to pursue legal action and compensation for damages associated with water contamination exposure [1].

This Act ensures that individuals who were exposed to Camp Lejeune water for a minimum of 30 days between 1953 and 1987 are eligible to file a lawsuit and seek compensation in the Eastern District of North Carolina.

Eligibility for filing a lawsuit under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act extends to veterans or their legal representatives who resided, labored, or were stationed at Camp Lejeune during the applicable period.

Wrongful death claims can be brought under the Act on behalf of former residents or employees of Camp Lejeune who perished due to injuries associated with their exposure to contaminated water.

Also Read: Toxic Water Served for Decades

Role of United States District Court in Camp Lejeune Water Litigation

The United States District Court plays a pivotal role in managing the ongoing Camp Lejeune litigation cases, ensuring that each case is evaluated and heard separately due to the lack of consolidation.

In addition to federal laws, North Carolina state laws also play a significant role in environmental contamination cases, with the state’s statute of repose allowing Camp Lejeune water lawsuits to be brought within 10 years of the act of contamination.

It is mandated that Camp Lejeune Justice Act claimants file Camp Lejeune lawsuit claims in the US District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

The interplay between federal and state laws ensures that environmental contamination cases are addressed comprehensively, with federal laws providing a baseline and state laws adding additional protections or regulations.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Involvement in Camp Lejeune Cases

The EPA is actively involved in Camp Lejeune cases, ensuring compliance with relevant environmental regulations and facilitating cleanup efforts.

The Agency has identified and conducted remediation for 46 sites contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE) at Camp Lejeune, working together with the Navy to select and implement appropriate remedies for these sites.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Updates

As the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits progress, Montana residents should keep up-to-date on the latest developments and outcomes, including the ongoing Camp Lejeune lawsuit.

To date, three settlements have been reached, totaling $850,000, with the Department of Justice urging federal judges in North Carolina to hasten their plans to manage the increasing number of Camp Lejeune lawsuits concerning water contamination at Camp Lejeune.

The judges in charge of the cases have put forward a consolidation process. Still, Judge Terrence Boyle has chosen to carry on with his cases, leading to some tension between the parties involved.

As each case must be evaluated and heard separately, the progress of Camp Lejeune cases may be slow. Still, it’s imperative for affected Montana residents to remain alert and pursue the justice they deserve.

The Cause Of the Contamination in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune

Understanding the cause of groundwater contamination at Camp Lejeune is fundamental in determining liability and seeking justice for those affected.

The contamination of the water supply at Camp Lejeune was caused by a combination of chemical spills and leaks that occurred on and off the base, leading to contamination of the water treatment plants.

Toxic chemicals, such as perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE), were released into the environment through various sources, including:

• An off-base dry cleaner that existed before the Marine base was opened
• The utilization of these chemicals to clean machinery and weapons
• A significant fuel leakage from an underground fuel tank
• Off-base dry cleaning facilities dispose of chemicals incorrectly
• On-base personnel utilizing heavy chemicals to clean equipment

What Toxic Chemicals Were Found in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune?

Toxic chemicals that were found in the groundwater at Camp Lejeune primarily consist of perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE) [2].

These hazardous compounds can enter the groundwater from a variety of sources, including discharges associated with dry cleaning operations and metal degreasing processes, consumer products such as adhesives and paint removers, vapor degreasers that were previously using chlorinated solvents, and contaminated surface water.

Health Issues Due To Exposure to These Chemicals

The health issues resulting from exposure to toxic chemicals in Camp Lejeune’s water supply are wide-ranging and severe. Exposure to PCE and TCE has been linked to:

• Reproductive Issues
• Birth Defects
• Leukemia
• Multiple Myeloma
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Bladder Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Renal Toxicity
• Esophageal Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Hepatic Steatosis
• Prostate Cancer
• Miscarriage Fetal Death
• Neurobehavioral Effects
• Lung Cancer
• Scleroderma
• Aplastic Anemia
• Cervical Cancer
• Wrongful Death

Research has suggested that the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune may be linked with a variety of neurobehavioral effects.

These include memory and concentration deficits, dementia, PTSD, insomnia, fatigue, and motor issues. Furthermore, the long-term effects of exposure to benzene and vinyl chloride can lead to permanent liver damage, lung and liver cancers, and alterations to the skin and bones in the hands.

Who Qualifies For A Montana Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Settlement?

Montana residents who have resided or been employed at Camp Lejeune for a minimum of 30 days during the contamination period from August 1, 1953, to December 31, 1987, and must have been exposed to contaminated water sources in their dwellings, places of work, daycare centers, or educational institutions qualify for a Montana Camp Lejeune water contamination settlement.

Those who meet the eligibility criteria and can provide sufficient evidence of their exposure to toxic chemicals at Camp Lejeune may pursue legal recourse by filing a lawsuit.

Consultation with an attorney who specializes in Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits is necessary for guidance, as each case is unique, and legal advice can ensure a successful outcome.

Damages That You Can Recover From a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

In a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit, victims may be eligible for compensatory damages to cover medical expenses and other losses.

There is no limit on the amount of compensatory damages that may be awarded, with some individuals receiving more than $500,000.00 for a tier 1 cancer.

Examples of potential compensation amounts for various health issues include up to $3,000 per month for medical expenses for successful claimants.

“Legal experts anticipate that the payouts from Camp Lejeune lawsuits may be higher than what is offered under the EO by the Department of the Navy (DON) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).”- Camp Lejeune Claims Center

The compensation awarded in a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit can help relieve the financial burden faced by victims and their families due to the health issues caused by exposure to toxic chemicals.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Montana

As more Montana residents become involved in Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits, it’s essential to understand the potential Camp Lejeune settlement amounts that can be awarded in these cases.

To date, over $6.7 billion will be paid out by 2031, with an additional $15 billion paid out after 2031, in estimated compensation for victims and families affected by Camp Lejeune water contamination.

Individual settlement amounts can vary widely, ranging from $100,000 to $550,000, depending on the medical condition the claimant has been diagnosed with. In addition, individual settlements for Parkinson’s disease cases could range from $1 million to $1.5 million.

Settlement amounts and offers for Camp Lejeune cases are being closely monitored, and the extent to which these offers will be reasonable remains to be seen.

Veterans, lawyers, and even judges have expressed their dissatisfaction with the Navy’s inaction regarding Camp Lejeune claims, highlighting the importance of staying informed and pursuing justice for those affected by the contaminated water.

Filing a Montana Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Initiating a Montana Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit can be complicated, requiring guidance from an experienced attorney specializing in such cases.

To file a lawsuit, individuals must first submit an administrative claim with the Department of the Navy, as mandated by federal law. The government is allowed six months to accept or reject the claim or not respond to it at all.

Suppose the government rejects the Camp Lejeune claim. In that case, the claimant’s Camp Lejeune lawyer may file a lawsuit in a federal court in North Carolina.

Specific deadlines apply to filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit, and it’s imperative for affected Montana residents to be aware of these deadlines and act accordingly.

Filing Deadlines, Montana Residents Must Know

Montana residents pursuing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit must be aware of important filing deadlines.

The deadline for submitting a claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act is two years from August 10, 2022. Failure to meet this deadline could result in the loss of the right to pursue a claim.

Gathering Evidence for Your Claim

Collecting evidence to support a Camp Lejeune water contamination claim is vital for a successful outcome.

To collect necessary medical records, contact the healthcare providers who treated you during your time at Camp Lejeune and request copies of your medical records. Veterans should also request records from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Related Article: VA Benefits for Camp Lejeune’s Victims

Navigating Federal and North Carolina State Law

Appreciating the interaction between federal and North Carolina state laws in Camp Lejeune water contamination cases is key to a successful outcome. Federal laws, such as the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act, provide a framework for environmental protection and set minimum standards that apply nationwide.

North Carolina state laws, on the other hand, may impose additional requirements or regulations specific to the state, such as the statute of repose allowing lawsuits to be brought within 10 years of the act of contamination.

Related Articles:

• Mississippi Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit
• Missouri Camp Lejune Water Contamination
• Minnesota Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. How Long Did the Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune Go Undetected?

The water contamination at Camp Lejeune went undetected for several decades. It is believed that the water supply was contaminated from the early 1950s until the mid-1980s, with the contamination being officially discovered and the affected wells being shut down in 1985.

2. Are There Any Ongoing Health Monitoring Programs For Those Exposed to Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

Yes, there are ongoing health monitoring programs for those exposed to Camp Lejeune water contamination. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers health care benefits and services to eligible veterans and family members affected by the contamination.

3. How Does Camp Lejeune Justice Act Impact Affected Individuals?

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act impacts affected individuals by providing additional support and compensation to those affected by the water contamination at Camp Lejeune. The Act seeks to establish a federal cause of action, allowing individuals who were exposed to the contaminated water and developed related health conditions to file lawsuits for damages in federal court.

Get Your Free Consultation From Montana Camp Lejeune Attorneys

At Schmidt and Clark, LLP we stand ready to support you during these challenging times. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team is well-versed in such cases and is ready to guide you at every step of the way.

You deserve to know your legal options and potential eligibility for a lawsuit. We assure you that our consultations are always free, and you won’t face any charges unless we achieve a positive result for your case.

Get in touch with Schmidt and Clark today for a thorough review of your case. Allow us to be your reliable ally in this journey.

Reference:

1. https://www.navy.mil/clja/#:~:text=Section%20804%20of%20this%20law,the%20Department%20of%20the%20Navy
2. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/chem_descriptions.html