ACES Act of 2025

The ACES Act of 2025 is a law enacted on August 14, 2025, that directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct a comprehensive study on cancer among a specific group of veterans. The law requires the VA to partner with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, a prestigious independent research organization, to investigate this important health issue.

The study focuses on veterans who served on active duty as aircrew members and regularly flew in fixed-wing aircraft. This group may have been exposed to unique occupational hazards during their military service that could affect their health outcomes. By examining cancer prevalence and mortality rates in this population, the law aims to better understand whether and how their military service may have contributed to cancer development.

This research will provide the VA and Congress with evidence-based information about the health needs of veteran aircrew members. The findings could inform future policies regarding veterans' healthcare, benefits, and support services. The partnership with the National Academies ensures the study will meet rigorous scientific standards and produce reliable, objective results.

For affected veterans, this law represents a commitment to investigate potential health risks they may have faced during their service. The results could lead to improved medical screening, treatment options, and compensation programs for veterans who develop cancer. This law demonstrates congressional oversight of veterans' health issues and support for medical research that directly benefits those who served in the military.