It is expected that the in Camp Lejeune Lawsuit, U.S. government will not be compelled to hand over the draft of a study of the incidence of cancer on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune to lawyers representing those who claim to have been affected by contaminated water on the base, a federal judge from North Carolina said on Tuesday.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert Jones Jr rejected a request to require the production of the study submitted by the plaintiffs’ executive team involved in the litigation, which included more than 1,400 suits and over 130,000 administrative demands made with the federal government.
The study is undergoing a peer review process, and Jones claimed it is covered by protections that apply to “pre-decisional” government materials. The judge warned that releasing the findings while they can be changed could cause confusion for the public and weaken confidence in other government studies.
The study on cancer incidence, also known as CIS, is currently going through the review process within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
Jones’ ruling can be appealed to district court judges who oversee the case.
The plaintiffs’ leadership team lawyers could not immediately respond to requests for comments.
A U.S. Department of Justice spokesperson refused to comment.
The administration and lawsuits claim that the water at the base led to cancer as well as miscarriages and other health issues for the people who worked or lived at the base in Jacksonville, North Carolina base. President Joe Biden signed the Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act in August 2022. It was the first time that there was a process to handle claims against Camp Lejeune.
Numerous studies have been conducted about the effects of water and the consequences for people subjected to it. It is believed that the Department of Health and Human Services acknowledges that the chemicals in the water at the foundation, which was polluted between 1953 and 1987, could have affected up to one million individuals.
An epidemiologist who was involved with the study revealed to Reuters that researchers had discovered an increase in cancer incidences among service civilians and military personnel who were within Camp Lejeune. The study had increased the number of cancers linked to water.
The government has started issuing payouts to those who claim they suffered harm from the water. The government is offering payouts of up to $550,000 for individuals and families according to their diagnosis and the length of their exposure. However, the lawsuit is still at an early stage, and the assessment of the majority of claims is ongoing.
Justice may finally be within reach.
The Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal exposed a devastating truth: countless lives were shattered due to negligence. Thousands served their country with unwavering dedication, only to face a silent enemy on their soil. And for those diagnosed with cancer or other severe health conditions after spending time at Camp Lejeune, the fight for justice has been long and arduous.
But a new chapter has begun. The passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act opens a window of opportunity for those affected to seek rightful compensation and hold negligent parties accountable. Time is of the essence – the filing deadline for claims approaches quickly.
If you or someone you know lived, worked, or spent time at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 and have since been diagnosed with cancer or other severe health conditions, don’t hesitate.
Take the first step toward accessing justice and receiving the support you deserve.
Schedule a free case evaluation today. Our dedicated legal professionals are here to answer your questions, navigate the legal process, and fight for every ounce of compensation you are owed. This is not just about financial closure; it’s about reclaiming your voice, honoring your sacrifice, and sending a clear message that such injustices will not be tolerated.
Let’s stand together. Let’s ensure that the sacrifices made at Camp Lejeune are not forgotten and that the fight for justice continues until every life impacted receives the recognition and support they deserve.
Together, we can make a difference.
