Trump administration distributes $1 billion to veterans affected by toxic water

The Trump administration is providing nearly $1 billion in payments to American veterans, families, and civilian employees who experienced health problems from contaminated drinking water at Marine Corps Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. The exposure occurred between 1953 and 1957, and many recipients have fought for decades to receive compensation.

The administration has paid out over $919.7 million to approximately 3,300 people since January 2025, under a 2022 law called the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, also known as the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. This law allows individuals who developed cancer or other illnesses due to the contaminated water to seek relief.

Prior to Trump taking office again, only 459 settlements totaling $59.6 million had been paid out between 2022 and the beginning of 2025. Payments to individuals range from $100,000 to $550,000, based on the severity of their illness. Ed Bell, an attorney who has worked on the case for nearly two decades, said many claimants feel the government is finally acknowledging the harm caused by the contaminated water. He estimates that around 300,000 claims will eventually be paid.

The Department of Justice launched the “Elective Option” settlement program in 2023 to provide faster payouts as an alternative to litigation. Between 1953 and 1987, three of the eight water systems on the base were found to be contaminated, and officials did not take action despite knowing the water was toxic, leading to health issues for those who drank it, including infant deaths.