A provision included in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which passed in the House of Representatives, requires a report on the use of Agent Orange on Guam.

The report, introduced by Delegate James Moylan, will detail when and where Agent Orange was used on the island. 

It will also identify suspected dumping sites and the impact on veterans and civilians. The amendment addresses a long-awaited injustice in Guam, and the report is due by Dec. 31, 2024.

The report shall also provide details on any known disabilities and diseases that can result from exposure to Agent Orange.

“There are many eyewitness reports from veterans who have stated that Agent Orange may have been used in Guam as far back as 1958. The PACT Act has indicated January 9, 1962, as the start date for veterans to make claims. In early 2023, our office introduced H.R. 1191 to correct the dates, but the relevant committees required reliable commissioned studies to begin any discussion. This report would be that study,” said Moylan. 

“The objective of this report is not only to enhance an argument of expanding the timelines of exposure of Agent Orange by veterans who served on Guam but also to begin the conversation on healthcare or disability compensation for civilians who may have been exposed. This endeavor has a long road ahead, but we need to start somewhere, and this report would help craft that path,” added Moylan.

The FY25 NDAA advances to the Senate for further action and, if passed, will be placed on the President’s table for signature. 

The measure authorizes over $2 billion in economic activity for Guam, including $100 million for access roads.