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McClatchy Washington Bureau
McClatchy Washington Bureau
National
Rick Childress

Easily passed 'blue water' bill could block benefits for thousands of veterans

WASHINGTON _ Veterans advocates were unhappy Thursday the Senate easily passed a bill the activists say will actually deny benefits to thousands the measure was designed to help.

The Blue Water Veterans Act passed by voice vote in the Senate on Wednesday night and now only requires the president's signature to become law.

The bill aims to extend Department of Veterans Affairs disability benefits to thousands of "blue water" Vietnam War Navy veterans who say they were exposed to toxic chemicals while serving off the coast of Vietnam.

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